tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46354609234766068412024-03-13T12:11:02.217-07:00Nicaragua, Peace Corps, and ICherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-4678824932576391002013-04-09T22:44:00.003-07:002013-04-09T22:44:43.961-07:00Adiós <br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Peace
Corps journey is officially over. Unfortunately, I was medically separated from
the Peace Corps due herniated discs in my spine that could not be adequately
treated in country. Health wise, I did not have the best of luck in country:
MRSA, tarantula bites, multiple flea infestations, scabies, and numerous parasites
and amoebas and to top it all off a back injury prove that. However I miss it
terribly and would do it over again in a heartbeat. Leaving halfway through my
service meant leaving projects unfinished and not seeing all the beauty and wonder
Nicaragua has to offer but I had no choice. Upon returning home in February, my
father was diagnosed with cancer and I knew that I would not be able to
function worrying about his health and my own thousands of miles away. In a
way, I am thankful for the medical separation because it took away the stress and
regret over quitting. I hate quitting and it tears me up that I did not get to
spend more time in Nicaragua working, improving Spanish, and getting to know
more incredible people. There are so many beautiful things about Nicaragua. I
strongly suggest visiting Nicaragua and Peace Corps also. At times when feeling
down and envious over my fellow PCV’s posts and pictures, I remember the good
times I had there and hug the greatest souvenir of all, my sweet Nicaraguan
puppy. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Adi</span><em style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ó</span></em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">s
Nicaragua and Peace Corps, thank you for teaching me so much like flexibility,
listening skills, Spanish, and forcing my introverted shy self to be an
outgoing, extrovert. I will treasure this experience for the rest of my life
and am forever grateful to you for introducing me to my soul mate, Risa Pepita. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Risa and I in the USA! </span></td></tr>
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Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-18000939526398445432013-02-09T07:35:00.002-08:002013-02-09T08:33:50.353-08:00Cruelty Disguised as Culture<br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I don’t
know what it is about them, but I love them. All. Four legs, two eyes, two
ears, one wet nose, one wagging tail and I am smitten. All my life, I have
loved dogs, even before I ever had one in my life. For example, as a dog-less kid, posters of
puppies adorned my walls. Therefore, living in a country where overpopulation
of dogs is common breaks my heart. Too many dogs roam the streets with
protruding ribs and empty bellies searching for food. They’re feral, aggressive
and fighting to survive. Some have mange and barnacle like blisters where fur
should be, some have gashes from dog fights, and some females have sagging
nipples from litter after litter. It is an awful thing, to see the creature you
the love the most neglected, abused, and slowly dying. I can’t stand it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A few days
ago, I saw the sickest looking dog of my life. Just writing about him now fills
my eyes with tears and heart with regret for not doing more for him. He was so
thin that his ribs and hip bones showed and so emaciated that that his back
legs touched when walking, half of his fur was missing and in its place was
barnacle like crusted mange, he was also bleeding from various gashes, and skin
was so infected, his stomach and genital area looked charred. He roamed the bus
station looking for scraps of food, patiently staring at people hoping for some
mercy. He was totally ignored and helpless. I instantly began to cry upon seeing him.
Immediately, I bought him a cooked chicken leg and wing. I was afraid that
maybe he’d scarf the entire thing down too fast causing him to vomit so I gave
it to him bit by bit. In the middle of a busy, crowded bus station, people
looked at me like I was crazy. There I was, squatting in between buses feeding
a filthy, sick animal an expensive meal while sobbing. I also gave him fresh clean water and tried to
catch him to take him to a vet to be put down or saved if possible. But it was
clear that his time on the streets has made him distrust people so as quickly
as he could he dodged my attempts and I lost him. My cab arrived and I cried for the entire
half hour ride to the Peace Corps office in Managua. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I cry often
over the state of animals here. I just cannot help but think how easily this
could have been Risa’s life, how she is the product of parents living this life
and what her litter-mates are like now, if alive at all. Risa was so <a href="http://www.dailypuppy.com/puppies/risa-the-mixed-breed_2012-08-22" target="_blank">sick and neglected</a> when I first got her. Two different vets told me that she would not
live but I persisted and today she is just as every dog should be; happy,
healthy, and loved. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Risa!</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since
arriving, I wanted to do something for the dogs here. But my little Spanish and
shy nature prevented me initially. Now I am fed up. I tried telling myself the
tired and pathetic excuse of “It’s cultural and animals serve a different
purpose here” but that never sat well with me. <b>Honestly, its bullshit! NEGLECT
IS ABUSE</b>. I have never agreed with cultural relativism and will never let culture excuse cruelty. All living creatures
are born with the universal right to live without suffering. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have had
many conversations with various people in my site about my dog. Many people
marvel at how healthy and pretty she is and think that she is a pure bred dog.
When I tell them that she is a mixed breed and explain that she looks nice
because she eats daily, gets bathed, and acts tame because she is treated well,
I always receive looks of surprise or “this gringa (white girl) is crazy.” I
also tell people that she is spayed and explain the benefits of it. They’re
small steps but worth taking especially in places that disguise cruelty as
culture. </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To help make a difference for dogs in Nicaragua, donate to <a href="http://www.granadaanimaloutreach.org/" target="_blank">Granada Animal Outreach</a> and <a href="http://www.buildingnewhope.org/casa-lupita.html" target="_blank">Casa Lupita</a>!</span></span></div>
Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-34946293394609688002013-01-05T14:48:00.000-08:002013-01-05T14:53:21.035-08:002012 Review in Photos<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've been living in the Nicaragua for a year now which has made me nostalgic and feel the need to look back on the last year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">January 2012: Enjoyed beautiful traditional dances at Diriamba's Fiestas San Patronales. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvTCjUfRens/UOikJCXMYnI/AAAAAAAAAO0/rDaPwS8MQMQ/s1600/093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvTCjUfRens/UOikJCXMYnI/AAAAAAAAAO0/rDaPwS8MQMQ/s1600/093.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">February 2012: Visited Volcano Masaya. This is a photo looking down into the crater. The crater is so large that in order to get a photo of it all, you need to be in an airplane. Also this volcano is very active. Here it is steaming awful smelling sulfur and often shoots rocks and debris out. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qGdL5IPEjI/UOijVhJ0wyI/AAAAAAAAAOk/INSKBMSDp6g/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qGdL5IPEjI/UOijVhJ0wyI/AAAAAAAAAOk/INSKBMSDp6g/s1600/014.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">March 2012: Left training and nearly burned myself making No Bake cookies on the wood burning stove, in the corner there.This is a shot of the first house I lived in here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> April 2012: I moved to Somoto, Madriz and began my service. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> May 2012: Friends and I swam through the beautiful Somoto Canyon! In this photo, a few Nicaraguan children were about to jump off the cliff. I did not to that. It's like 25 meters high!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> May 2012: I took care of this adorable kitten for my host brother that gave me fleas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> June 2012: I beheaded a cockroach after throwing my Chaco sandal at it. Other cool things happened but I'm really proud of this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> July 2012: A few of my favorite girls who I work with performed traditional dances at a festival in town. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">August 2012: My best friend Tonya and sister Crystal came to visit. And I took in that adorable puppy (in my arms here) who came on vacation with us too. Here we all are in beautiful Granada.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">September 2012: My world is temporarily shattered when a thief steals my puppy. This photo was used on her Missing Dog flyers that advertised a monetary reward. The thief returned her for the reward so I had to pay him to get my own dog back. Jerk. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ocotober 2012: Awesome friends and I celebrated my birthday in beautiful Playa Gigante. Also, I held a random baby sea turtle that had hatched and was instinctively crawling his way to the water. Sara and I helped him out a little since he was lost on the rocks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">November 2012: I met my first centipede here after he entered my room without an invite. Watch out, they sting, have venom, and are supposedly very aggressive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">December 2012: I ended the year by returning home to gorgeous Washington state and reunited with my Lab loves. They didn't forget me at all! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here's to a happy and healthy 2013 for us all... four legged friends included of course! </span></div>
Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-80162404820760332842012-11-26T14:54:00.002-08:002012-11-26T14:55:39.701-08:00Dogs and Cats; Forgotten Victims of Poverty<br />
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knows me would agree that it is an understatement to call me an “animal
person.” Animal fanatic or Dog lover are more accurate terms. Therefore, one of
the biggest challenges of living and working in a developing country is seeing
the vast amounts of helpless, starving, and suffering dogs and cats that roam
the streets. Some are strays. Some have homes but live with families who can
barely afford to feed themselves let alone buy anti-flea shampoo or kibble. Seeing animals hurt, makes me hurt. I will
restrain myself from providing further details of the horrible conditions that
some animals suffer here. Most days I can barely stand to witness it, myself. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Which is
why I was delighted to find out about </span><a href="http://www.buildingnewhope.org/casa-lupita.html"><span lang="EN-US">Casa Lupita</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, an animal clinic that provides free
sterilizations and consultations. Every
Thursday, they offer free consultations and every Friday is sterilization
day. My puppy, Risa was spayed at Casa
Lupita on November 9<sup>th</sup> for free. Free is one of the sweetest words
to lay upon a Peace Corps Volunteer ears, it probably beats love. So Risa and I
made the long, 6 hour bus trip down to Granada to get her spayed. I can’t begin
to explain my overprotective nature I have when it comes to my baby girl, Risa,
therefore, I did my research and checked this place out. I read numerous
reviews and annoyingly sent its founder and manager a myriad of questions. All were positive. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfE3Q-DLJwQ/ULPyoha8GLI/AAAAAAAAANs/HwyipcMKvJE/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfE3Q-DLJwQ/ULPyoha8GLI/AAAAAAAAANs/HwyipcMKvJE/s1600/019.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy and healthy a few days after her surgery!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Casa Lupita
and its staff treated my puppy and I wonderfully. She received anesthesia via a
machine during her operation which is not standard here. Yes, that is right. Anesthesia
is expensive so some veterinarians do these invasive operations without it.
Poor animals. The veterinarian who did Risa’s operation was very skilled. Her
incision was very small and he used dis-solvable, internal stitches therefore a
cone was not necessary. She also received
a dose of antibiotics to prevent infection as well as pain medicine. She was groggy
for a few days, sniffed and licked the incision a few times but quickly forgot
about it. She has had no complications and is back to her playful self. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Another awesome
and heartwarming part of this experience was seeing Casa Lupita’s impact on the
community. There was a line of Nicaraguans
and their pets waiting before they opened their doors. Every Friday, it is like
this. When I told people in Somoto that I was getting my dog sterilized, almost
all were against it. It is not the custom here despite the massive overpopulation
of dogs and cats. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Casa Lupita
runs solely on donations through its funding USA organization <a href="http://www.buildingnewhope.org/casa-lupita.html">Building New Hope</a>
that was founded by a former Peace Corps Volunteer. Best of all, you can <a href="http://www.buildingnewhope.org/donate.html">donate</a> online! Please do
so, to help those who can’t help themselves, street animals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-60183747375103342642012-10-18T15:48:00.001-07:002012-10-18T15:53:24.087-07:00General Gender Observations <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">First and foremost,
I love being a woman. Despite sexism, machismo, and the ever-ruling patriarchy,
I am happy to be a woman. This does not mean that I do not acknowledge the challenges
that come with having two breasts and a vagina. I have studied gender in school
and continue to follow women’s political issues around the world. I know all
about the horror and heartache that some women experience and the assumptions that
result from merely possessing female anatomy. These challenges vary in
intensity from culture to culture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">For instance,
I did not expect making friends near my age in my site to be so difficult. Plenty
of men want to be my friend but usually, even if married or taken, their
intentions are clear. Furthermore, I know my reputation might suffer from
friendships with only males in my site despite everyone in my site thinking that
I am married to another male Peace Corps volunteer here. Maybe its paranoia but
I cannot risk it. I have almost 2 years left and a lot of hope left to do more,
to integrate more, and to learn more. It is clear that the Madonna complex is
strong here and to work successfully within this culture, I submit. I do
something that I tried so hard my entire life to not, I care about what others
think. A lot. It matters here, especially for a woman. If my reputation slips,
so will my influence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">However, it
is a different story for my two male site-mates. Women and men pursue their
friendships. Even when the women make their sexual intentions clear or they are
surrounded by women. No one second guesses their quality of character. Their influence
does not weaken hell it might even strengthen in the eyes of other men. I joke
that they are called “El Gringo Divino” meaning "The Divine White Man" in English.
Their male anatomy provides them with entitlements. Que Suerte! (What luck!) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">To a feminist desperately wanting equality
for all, g</span>ender imbalance is obvious here. One day each week, I teach a health class at an at-risk youth center.
I love it there. The kids, the energy, and the program are all energizing. From
my time there, I cannot help but notice the stark difference between the boys
and girls when it comes to answering my questions, participating, even reading
aloud. The boys nearly knock each other over trying to answer first and
sometimes even argue over who gets to read which sentence out loud. On the
other hand, the girls are another story. If boys are present and I ask a girl a
direct question, usually she retreats, looks down then around at her class
mates before looking back at me and refusing to speak. When only in a group of
girls, they are slightly more outgoing, more secure but still reluctant and shy.
Sadly, I doubt the girls grow out of it. Proof of this is my experience working
with both adult males and females here. Males usually ask and answer questions, some even
challenge me. Women, usually need to be encouraged or their answers to be
guided.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kV9UUAHb4LM/UICH6xy5IKI/AAAAAAAAANY/8qFpgKCldgQ/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kV9UUAHb4LM/UICH6xy5IKI/AAAAAAAAANY/8qFpgKCldgQ/s1600/011.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutest feminist I know, Risa!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US">Regardless,
I still prefer womanhood even in the Peace Corps. I get to talk about intimate
health issues with other women easily and I get to inspire young girls to say
their opinions out loud. I am an example to the young girls in my classes who
shy away from answering questions in front of boys that they too have a voice.
I am beyond grateful to be a representation of that and even more so to
encourage it in the girls and women here. It makes all the challenges here both
gender related or not totally worth it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"></span>
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-85135632139276279632012-09-30T11:06:00.000-07:002012-09-30T11:11:20.284-07:00Homesick-ness<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All
apologies for not blogging for a while. I have been debating what to write
about next. I know I can write about work, how my puppy was dog-napped (she’s
back and safe now), or even how much fun I had while my sister and friends from
home visited. But lately, my head and heart has been occupied with missing home
and my family there so I’m writing about that. Before reading the following
post, please keep in mind, I am not depressed (so don’t freak out, Dad) and am
not going to quit Peace Corps and move home (so don’t get excited, Dad). Enjoy my diary entry on missing Washington.
If you have never been, I strongly suggest you add a trip to Western Washington
to your bucket list. In my eyes, there is not a more magical or comforting
place on earth. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I left my
beautiful homeland, Washington state January 10, 2012. I have been away from its
emerald, dove gray, and marine blue enchantments for almost 10 months now. It
hurts. Physically and emotionally. Despite having lived in Colorado for 5 years
and Kenya for a semester, I have never been away from my home and family this
long. It sucks. I miss the rain, the mist that never leaves the air even on
days it does not rain, and the water soaked, mossy earth that feels as if you’re
walking upon foam but most of all I miss my family, crazy jumping labs and all.
There have been brief moments where Nicaragua has reminded me of home. These moments
overtake my senses and flush my eyes with tears.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For
example, last week I spent a few days in the cool mountains of Selva Negra, Matagalpa.
Believing that nowhere in Nicaragua can get cold, I laughed off my family’s
advice to bring a sweater for both Risa and I. Upon entering Selva Negra, I was
immediately reminded of home. It is this beautiful hotel nestled in the
mountains and overgrown forest with plentiful tall trees so dense that at times
you can’t see the horizon and moss grows everywhere. Also, it was actually
cold. I shivered for the first time in 10 months while there. Here, I
experienced the most intense and heart wrenching bout of homesickness. One early morning while taking Risa for her daily
walk, we stepped off the concrete path onto earth only to step upon the same
water soaked, mossy earth like in Western Washington. As my feet sunk into the
earth, a bittersweet bolt of nostalgia shot through my body and upon reaching
my face, it filled my eyes with tears momentarily. For that second, I swear I
smelled Washington; fresh rain drops upon pine and fir trees. All
Washingtonians know that wonderful scent after it rains. Equally pristine and
wild. No tree shaped air freshener or Yankee Candle can mimic it exactly. I
couldn’t handle it and immediately stepped back onto the concrete. It was torture, to be teased with something
that felt so much like home while knowing you are nowhere near it. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On December
18<sup>th</sup>, I will return to the unbeatable beauty of the Pacific
Northwest. That is 78 days from now. In 78 days, I will inhale the fresh
Washington air. In 78 days, I will smile while my feet sink into the mossy
earth. Best of all, in 78 days I will embrace my father, my sister, and my
adorable labs in the shadow of majestic Mount Rainier. 78 days from now, I will
finally be treated for my homesick-ness. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-6589771060769817222012-08-05T21:13:00.000-07:002012-08-05T21:13:05.397-07:00The story of Risa… my laughter, my love!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdn_QeE3QD4/UB9DkXHc0ZI/AAAAAAAAANA/QYo8MnwwzUE/s1600/Rightsideup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdn_QeE3QD4/UB9DkXHc0ZI/AAAAAAAAANA/QYo8MnwwzUE/s320/Rightsideup2.jpg" width="252" /></a> <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the hardest parts about leaving for Peace Corps was leaving my two adorable and silly labs behind. Knowing I would miss them terribly and that my life would not be complete without a four-legged friend, I had always planned on getting a dog in service and I even created a Peace Corps puppy fund before leaving. Last week, I went to my sitemate’s house to hang out and was surprised to find a teeny and skittish puppy hiding behind a cabinet. Immediately, I freaked out and wanted to chinear (rock like a baby) this puppy. Upon seeing my reaction to her, his family offered her to me. One look at her face while she was in my arms and I knew I couldn't say “no.” Dreams really do come true; I now have the cutest puppy in all of Central America.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzV3ufELnWU/UB9DMsgIRQI/AAAAAAAAAMo/HTTmxonXtTk/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzV3ufELnWU/UB9DMsgIRQI/AAAAAAAAAMo/HTTmxonXtTk/s320/016.JPG" width="179" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Originally, I had named her Lupita because I thought it was an adorable name and did not know that giving a dog a human name is like an insult in Nicaraguan culture. Therefore, I changed her name to Risa (ree-sa) which means laughter because that is exactly what she adds to my life. Thankfully, I live with a very loving family here that have welcomed Risa with open arms. My host mother calls her "mi nieta" (my granddaughter) and my host brother calls her "mi sobrina" (my niece). I understand the full responsibility of having a dog here and plan on bringing her everywhere I can with me including the USA when I end my service in 2014.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy the photos of her cute-ness! I wish you all the happiness that my little Risa has already brought to my life here. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-87834221739838626862012-07-17T14:49:00.000-07:002012-07-18T19:40:36.856-07:00Todo sobre mi MRSA/ All about my MRSA<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">July 2012
was a month full of firsts, I never wanted. First overnight hospital stay,
first IV, first surgery, and first stitches. If we are Facebook friends, then
you probably have read my status updates regarding my week long stay in the
hospital to be treated for <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/" target="_blank">MRSA</a>. MRSA is a type of Staph bacteria that is resistant
to common antibiotics. It spreads quickly and aggressively and can be deadly if
your lungs or heart get infected as well. Thankfully, my infections were caught
early and no serious damage was done. As a result, please don’t worry as I am
totally fine and was never near death. Also, if you get squeamish when reading,
seeing, or hearing about gooey, bloody medical details, I recommend not reading
any further. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">About 3
weeks ago, I was working with local kids at an at-risk youth center where I was
bit by a sizeable spider after sitting down on a bench outside. At first, I did
not realize that the spider had bit me. I felt a pinch upon sitting down on a
slotted wooden bench, then saw a sizable, hairy brown spider the size of a half
dollar. Figuring that the two events were unrelated, I joyously participated in
soccer and volleyball games with the kids without washing the wound or covering
it. By the late afternoon, the back of my thigh, where the spider had bit me
was sore and swollen. I realized that the spider had bit me and figured it had
venom so I called one of handy Peace Corps doctors who recommended that I take anti-histamine
and ice it to reduce the swelling. Figuring it was no big deal, I followed suit.
However, a day and half later, it was larger, redder, and more painful and walking
was reduced to limping. Red flags were raised in my mind, so I called the Peace
Corps doctor again who said that it must be infected and prescribed
antibiotics. “Hallelujah!” I thought, problem solved... But I was very wrong about
this. After 24 hours of taking the antibiotic, everything was worse. The pain,
the size, the color… all had gotten stronger. Even more concerning was noticing
a small bump on the side of my calf on the same leg that did not itch, was hot
to touch, and red. All of these things were the initial signs of the first
infection. In order to monitor the growth of the possibly second infection, I
drew a circle around it before bed. Sleep that night was hardly possibly since
my entire leg was in pain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Upon waking
up, I found the second infection to be bigger and beyond the circle. I called the Peace Corps doctor again and they
requested that I come to Managua to have it looked at and treated. That phone
call was followed by the most uncomfortable bus ride ever to Managua. I get to
Managua see our Peace Corps doctor who takes samples by causing me necessary,
but excruciating pain. In order to get the sample, she had to push the large,
swollen wound and force liquid out to be tested. Since the abscess had not yet
formed and it hurt without any touch or physical contact, having it pressed
against for a few minutes flooded my eyes with tears. Thankfully, the doctor
finally got enough discharge out of it for a sample then I was off to the
nicest hospital in Nicaragua for an afternoon of tests and trying to track down
the Infectious Disease specialist. Nothing calms your nerves like hearing you
need to see the Infectious Disease specialist! He was not available so they doubled my
antibiotics and threw some pain killers into the mix. The next day was hell.
The infection was in all layers of my skin so as the abscess was forming, all
layers of skin were splitting open in an attempt to push the infection out of my
body. This was a slow and painful process. Even with pain killers, I would have
sporadic shocks of pain that were so strong, I would scream out loud and some
so strong, I felt faint after. I did not get much sleep that night and the next
day, I finally had an appointment with the infectious disease specialist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The
specialist’s office was covered with awards and certificates which comforted me
because receiving medical treatment in Spanish and in a developing country that
has standards, rules, and medical training different than your own is worrisome.
“Whoa!” Exclaimed the highly esteemed specialist as I showed him the big
infection on the back of my thigh. Not comforting. He promptly admitted me and
called in the surgeon to schedule surgery on the 2 infected areas that night.
At this point, I had a fever and felt generally ill all over from the
infection. Also my zombie walk was no longer possible, as I was reduced to
hopping on my left leg. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I was
prepped for surgery with a rather humiliating but hilarious experience. Since I
could not walk or move much from the pain and the abscess was profusely
bleeding. The nurses forbade me from moving. Therefore, when they were about to
transport me to the operating room and noticed that I had my underwear still
on, they reacted quickly by removing it then slapping an adult diaper on me
instead! One nurse lifted me while the other strapped it two me just like you
would do to a baby. Two sticky straps on each side. Sadly, no cartoons. Realizing,
I had lost all dignity, I could only laugh hysterically. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Before
entering the operating room, they gave me anesthesia in my IV and knocked me
out. However, I woke up in the operating room while they were prepping my leg
for surgery. Upon waking up, I found myself strapped to the bed on my side with
my arms strapped down in front of me, tubes coming out of my nose, heart
monitors attached to my chest, and the freakiest sight was watching my heart
beat on the monitor. I groggily looked up at the nurse and asked “Should I sleep?”
in Spanish. The anesthesiologist promptly gave me more meds in my IV that
knocked me out instantly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">According
to my surgeon, the operation only took about 20 minutes to open, drain, and
remove the infected flesh. Thankfully, no muscle tissue was infected but all
layers of skin were so they had to remove a sizable chunk. The incision and
removal behind my thigh was about 3 inches long and 3/4inch wide at one point. I
have several stitches in the back of my thigh and in the side of my right calf
that only required a 1 small one inch incision. Thankfully, after my operation,
I spoke with my father and sister by phone which was comforting. I must admit
the drugs were strong and I do not recall much from that conversation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US">Immediately,
they began giving me fluids, pain killers, and a MRSA killing, super strong
antibiotic. The antibiotics were strong and the major side effects were
heartburn and nausea. Reading was difficult because of the intense nausea but
thankfully, my hospital room had a television and wifi! About 2 days after my
surgery, a third infection began to grow on my opposite leg. Seeing as the
bacteria was still active, they increased my antibiotics, drained the third
lesion, and extended my hospital stay by one more day. After 6 days in the
hospital, I was freed and released to a nice hotel to finish recovering for a
week. After a week there, I was able to return to lovely Somoto that I missed
dearly. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US">Currently, I have stitches and
still am unable to walk much in order to prevent breaking the stitches however;
I am returning to Managua this Friday so the doctor can check its healing
progress and possibly remove the stitches if they are ready to be removed. </span><span style="background-color: white;">There is no
need to worry. Other than some mild pain in my leg, I feel great and am very
happy to be back in my site. The doctors, nurses, and Peace Corps medical
office were all really great and treated me well. In no time I will be back to
functioning fully! </span></div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-58248647959906266802012-06-13T19:57:00.000-07:002012-06-13T19:57:25.096-07:00Awkward…<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Throughout
my five months here in Nicaragua I have encountered, caused, and been victim to
plenty of awkward moments. I am still learning the Spanish language and have
yet to learn the direct translation of the commonly used in the USA, English
word, Awkward. Google translate and my Spanish dictionaries give me some
translations but none are used by Nicas and used to mean other things here.
Therefore, I and other PCVs I know have concluded that there is no direct
translation for that awkward feeling that creeps up when things just are not
right and you’re at a loss for words, but know that your friends will laugh
when you tell them about your awkward moment or feel awkward themselves at your
expense. The Nicaraguan Spanish vocabulary is in need of the word for awkward
and my top 2 awkward moments prove it. Enjoy and please laugh along with me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span lang="EN-US">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">After vomiting all night,
experiencing massive stomach cramps, and watery stools, I assume I have a
parasite and need to go to the laboratory to get a stool test done. I go to the
lab for the test and submit my sample in the only bathroom there. The bathroom
shares an entrance with the waiting room that is filled with sick people like
me waiting to submit, urine tests, stool tests, or blood tests. Therefore
coming out the bathroom, with a cup in a plastic bag eliminates the blood test
option. Grossed out yet? Yes? Good. So right after I hand my stool sample off
to the nurse, I sit down. A Nicaraguan man about my age, maybe younger is
sitting beside me and he starts to hit on me. Really? You know what I just did
and I know you’re in to get tested for something gross too. And you’re trying
to get a date!?! Really?! Awkward! To
make this awkward moment even more special is the fact that he was wearing a
white t-shirt with his own photo (stoic facial expression and all) printed on
it. He looked better in the photo.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">First month of training. Spanish
class in my homestay families living room and we are learning medical terms and
slang terms for body parts in Spanish because we are health workers of course.
In training, classes were in 100% Spanish also. Our Profe, says the phrase “La
barba de Fidel.” Knowing that “barba” means beard, and knowing who Fidel Castro
is, I assumed that she was talking about Fidel Castro’s hideous beard. So I
innocently ask, “I don’t understand how men eat with those in way!?! How?”
Immediately, my follow trainees bust our laughing and my profe’s face turns
bright red. I sat there dumbfounded until my friend Alex was able to stop
laughing hard enough to say “That is slang for, a woman’s big bush!” Realizing
the horrible mistake I’ve made in Spanish, I bust out laughing until I cry
while the feeling of awkwardness and mortification take over.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Hope you got a laugh out of these! </span></span><br />Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-258130473831963172012-05-20T19:35:00.000-07:002012-05-20T19:35:08.271-07:00Flu, hopefully not Dengue ramblings<br />
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Maybe it’s
the fever, the flu medicine, or my cynical, over-analytical nature but I can’t
help but question my purpose and impact here. After all, I am a foreigner
coming into another sovereign nation with a completely separate culture and
different language brought here on the promise that I can teach something new. On
paper, I look qualified and promising having a Bachelor’s in International
Studies, undergraduate minor in Spanish, Graduate Certificate in Global Health,
and Master’s degree in International Development. And I do believe, that my time spent studying
the world’s problems, no matter how depressing it was (seriously, I had a
slideshow of puppy pictures I’d go to during some of my research) that I am
prepared on an academic level to do this work. But these degrees and majority
of classes were earned in a western institution with western values and mostly
western viewpoints. I never found any of the classes within my major boring and
excelled more in them because of that. I am still what I was before, an
outsider looking in. Except then, I was an outsider among other outsiders. Now,
I am trying my best to apply learned knowledge to help others, to improve the
health of the community in which I have been placed Somoto, Nicaragua.
Thankfully, Peace Corps Nicaragua’s health sector is paired with the Nicaraguan
Ministry of Health so I am working alongside a Nicaraguan counterpart and out
of the city’s health center. Therefore,
I’m not some rogue America going at this alone. At this point I am still
learning more than I am teaching. I know this is essential to my success here
which I am also unsure how to measure that and I do have until April 2014 (gulp)
to accomplish something impactful and hopefully sustainable.</div>
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<span lang="EN-US">One of my
worries comes from my love I have for another part of the world. I must
confess, whenever up to my choice, I chose African countries and African specific
issues to focus on in school. Hell, I even chose to go to Kenya to study abroad
when most students were going to Australia and Spain. With all its challenges, including
the times where I felt frozen stiff with shock at some of the extreme poverty I
saw, I loved Kenya and my time there with every fiber of my body and want to
return more than anything. It is the absolute truth when I say that I learned
more about myself, life, and the world in general in those few months I spent
in Kenya. For Peace Corps, I wanted to be placed in Sub Saharan Africa and probably
ruined my chances of going there by saying so in my interviews. In school, we learned that a lot of
development models failed because the people trying to help applied a one size
fits all mentality to all developing nations.Yes, Kenya and Nicaragua are both
poor but that is one of the few things these countries have in common. In Kenya,
I met Kenyans who viewed Aid workers and foreign non-profit organizations as
neo-colonialism which hurt to hear but must admit is a valid concern. Does my
previous obsession with Africa hurt my ability to work in Latin America? Maybe
if I spent more time writing papers on Central America, I would not be writing
this blog post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">At the end
of the day, after giving health presentations in Spanish, and trying to form
relationships within my community, I return to my humble abode and feel guilty not proud, not selfless.
Although, I know it doesn’t serve my purpose here and helps no one. But the
acknowledgement of all the privilege I was born with for the sole reason of
being born within the borders of the United States is enough to put a pit in
any North American’s stomach. Privileges like free education up until age 18, a
trustworthy and efficient police force, reproductive choice, clean running
water, electricity, good roads, and so much more. But most of all is the guilt
that knowing in 2 years I have the privilege to return to all of the luxuries
and conveniences of the USA while the majority of the world’s population lives
in poverty. Also considering forgoing these amenities by choice is condescending by itself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Maybe my sister is right about me thinking too much and being too hard on myself. But self reflection for all foreigners abroad is necessary and hope that more share my concerns and are willing to question their presence abroad. </span>I am certain that everything I have started here and will continue to do will be with my best effort and earnest ambition to do good. With all my heart and
every cell within me, my intentions are nothing but good. If the road to hell is paved with good
intentions and mine are nothing but that, what exactly am I paving right now?
Only time will tell.</div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-55057068097322596072012-05-06T00:06:00.001-07:002012-05-06T00:06:05.134-07:00Living conditions: a tad uncomfortable, an abundance of bugs, and a smile<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most people
associate Peace Corps with deplorable living conditions. While I can admit that
they are neither luxurious nor bug free and I must confess that I am on the
more spoiled end of Peace Corps Volunteers, like having a sometimes flushing toilet
instead of a latrine. However, I can confirm that they are not deplorable, just
drastically different and uncomfortable compared to most American cribs.
My sister, Crystal Smith and best friend, Tonya Luna are visiting me this
August and neither have traveled to or lived in a developing country before.
Knowing this, I have started reflecting on all of the things that I found shocking, different, and extremely uncomfortable the first time I moved to a
developing country, Kenya.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am writing
this post simply to ease their fears and answer their questions as well as give
you all a look into my living conditions.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8TgfrkgBMR8/T6YQ2Gwz4oI/AAAAAAAAAE4/_LIUDoPJzf8/s1600/234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8TgfrkgBMR8/T6YQ2Gwz4oI/AAAAAAAAAE4/_LIUDoPJzf8/s400/234.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My casita (little house)</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First of
all, I do not live in a dirt walled hut with a straw thatch roof (although, I
did for a few weeks in Kenya, once) but in Nicaragua, I thankfully have a concrete
one room house with a metal zinc roof, tile floor, wooden door, and wooden window. The
window has no glass or screen. The door has no screen but has a very sturdy
lock and no door handle on the outside limiting the possibility of a break in. The concrete walls do not reach the roof. This is specifically designed to
increase air flow since it is always hot here. Fortunately in my new house,
there are screens between the roof and walls which keep bats from getting in at
night. Hooray!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Laundry, I
do it by hand and do not have a washing machine. They do exist here but my
family does not have one. We do have a lavendero which is a big cement sink
outside that has a built in cement washboard. Using the laundry detergent here
which comes as a bar of soap, I get my clothes wet using a bowl to scoop water out of the the pila (water storage) and wet my clothes, then I scrub them with the
bar soap and scrub them even harder on the cement wash board. Followed by
rinse, wring, and hang on the line in the sun to dry. Then repeat with next
item of clothing. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MplxdkMlZs/T6YRuEkVBiI/AAAAAAAAAFA/o1RqipeeIPU/s1600/232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MplxdkMlZs/T6YRuEkVBiI/AAAAAAAAAFA/o1RqipeeIPU/s400/232.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mosquito net. Up above, screened gaps</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let’s talk
about bugs. I live in Central America. It is hot. It is tropical. It is has a
very diverse as well as sizable population of bugs. No doubt, do these annoying
and hideous creatures serve a purpose in this ecosystem, which I accept.
However, I have yet to figure out the purpose of mosquitos anywhere in the
world other than being blood-sucking, deadly disease spreading jerks. As stated before my house does have screens
between the walls and roof however, these screens only keep the bats out at
night and some larger beetles. Nevertheless most creepy critters still find
their way in and as of Friday morning, a scorpion (uh em, A**HOLE) entered
my humble abode. Also, it seems to be
that a lot of bugs bite here. Before I started wearing pants, socks, and shoes
daily (which sucks because, it’s really hot), I was covered in bug bites
of all different sizes and shapes despite my overuse of OFF. I hate wearing
skirts now because people always comment on my battered legs. I love you
Nicaragua but I DESPISE your bugs. Also, for more bug protection, I sleep under
a mosquito net that I keep tucked beneath my mattress 24/7. This may be paranoid but, I refuse to give scorpions and tarantulas an all access pass to my bed or
even a one-time ticket.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVm27--3kYQ/T6Ye9sLp82I/AAAAAAAAAFM/WPbO79Txw1g/s1600/137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVm27--3kYQ/T6Ye9sLp82I/AAAAAAAAAFM/WPbO79Txw1g/s320/137.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little crowded</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transportation:
hot, crowded, and uncomfortable, period. A lot of the public transport buses
here are old, yellow school buses from the USA. During certain hours, these get
filled like a can of sardines. So in
addition to being squeezed into a child-size seat with other people, there is
also people smooshed together standing in the hallways of the bus. As my friend
and fellow PCV (Peace Corps Volunteer), Kiron once observed on a bus, “This guy is
totally humping my shoulder!” Indeed it is an unpleasant picture of an awkward
situation. FYI to all future visitors, your bubble space will be invaded but
please come anyway. I promise you that the beaches, active volcanoes, canyon,
and islands are well worth getting your shoulder humped. Furthermore, I also promise you that I know
enough Spanish to be an adequate tour guide! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br /><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Defecation;
a disgusting but necessary part of life that must be addressed. Fortunately, I have a sometimes
flushing toilet which means when the water is running which thankfully is every
morning and evening at my house, the toilet flushes. However, when there is no running
water, like in my training family’s house, you have to get a bucket, fill it
with water, then pour the water down the toilet bowl until all contents
flush. This had to be done for every “event”
at my training family’s home, and “larger events” required 2 buckets of water. They also had to be retrieved from the well out back and brought into the house, so when
someone was bringing in 2 buckets of water… we all knew what that meant! LOL. However,
latrines are common in public places and more people have latrines than toilets
in rural areas so don't be surprised if that is the only option. Also, toilet paper and soap are not ubiquitous here. Another
recommendation is to always have them with you. Before you rethink visiting, remember, there are smoking volcanoes jutting out of a gigantic lake filled with the world's ONLY freshwater sharks! C'mon, that totally outweighs, the lack of toilet paper. Toughen up and visit!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Something
that surprised me is how quickly I am adjusting. I believe that it is easier if
you accept all the new changes and learn to live a different way without
c</span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">omparing
it to what you're accustomed to. For example, if every time I
hand-washed my clothes or dishes, I thought about how much easier it would be
to throw them into a washing machine, I would turn sour and go nuts.
Essentially, my life is very “normal” here like back home. I walk to work at 8
am daily Monday through Friday, cook, even bake (ie, I made onion-herb beer
bread today, yum!), clean, surf the internet, chat with my nica family,
neighbors, and friends, and play with my kitten. Yes, a washing machine, dish
washing machine, glass-screened window and screen door would be nice but are
not necessary. Things are just things that don’t make a life great or give it
meaning. My experience doing work I enjoy and getting to know the wonderful
people in my site greatly outweigh the conveniences of the good ol’ USA.
Honestly, the only things I am really missing back home are the things that
mean the most to me; my family, friends, and (</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kku9xFSgL00" target="_blank"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">as predicted</span></a><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">) two unforgettable, adorable pups, Dexyboo and BooBear. </span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBSHoywEdHo/T6YhpqB2sHI/AAAAAAAAAF0/gacumdJRe_0/s1600/381678_747665096383_39202775_35421820_545899463_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBSHoywEdHo/T6YhpqB2sHI/AAAAAAAAAF0/gacumdJRe_0/s200/381678_747665096383_39202775_35421820_545899463_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If these were your dogs, </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZvKYe0aZGk/T6YhrqzkblI/AAAAAAAAAF8/9HnkQbhNk2s/s1600/395980_755103544673_39202775_35450678_1300181174_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZvKYe0aZGk/T6YhrqzkblI/AAAAAAAAAF8/9HnkQbhNk2s/s200/395980_755103544673_39202775_35450678_1300181174_a.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you'd miss them too! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-46566980745106312292012-04-24T14:59:00.000-07:002012-04-24T14:59:17.281-07:00Beautiful Things About Nicaraguan Culture<br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Leaving
everything you know for everything you don’t is very difficult but totally
worth it. Four months ago, I arrived in Nicaragua not knowing what to expect,
except for heat and beans. Both of which I get plenty of and love most of the
time. Having never been to a Latin American country before and speaking
unbearably poor Spanish, I was a mix of complete fear and overwhelming
excitement! Fear for not fitting in, doing something offensive culturally and
excitement for seeing, learning about, and living in an entirely new place and
culture. Obviously, as I am currently writing this under the strong Nicaraguan
sun, excitement prevailed. Thankfully, I have had the privilege to live among
families in Nicaragua to learn more about their culture, food, traditions, and
customs. As a result, I would like to share some of the beautiful things about
Nicaraguan culture that have warmed my heart and opened my eyes to a new way of
life, my new way of life in Nicaragua. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Open door
policy: If people are awake, their doors are open. Everyone here keeps their doors wide open for
two reasons I’ve observed, to let cool air in and invite visitors. Here
strangers, acquaintances, even vendors are welcomed into the house or at the
very least offered a chair on the front porch, chatted up, and often times
offered coffee or a refreshment. It is
very kind and no one seems to be annoyed or bothered by the presence of door to
door vendors or friends/family stopping by daily to chat. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Free food,
coffee, and frescos (delicious freshly made juice with lots of sugar): Nicaragua
is the 2<sup>nd</sup> poorest country (1<sup>st</sup> is Haiti) in the western
hemisphere, and yet no matter how poor the people are if you enter their house,
you are welcomed like family and offered free food, frescos, and always
coffee. Also, you can’t feel bad or like
a burden if you accept, because it is taken as an insult if you deny these
offerings. In training we were taught to
tell long excuses in Spanish in case we are offered something we don’t want or
eat. For example, I can’t drink a lot of caffeine because it makes me nauseous,
therefore when offered, I say I can only drink a little because of caffeine
makes me sick and usually people understand and pour me a little bit or offer
me fresco instead. It is for this reason, that I am no longer vegetarian
because when offered half of a chicken and beef (beef is very expensive and
hence a really special treat when offered) I ate it out of respect and a desire
to make a good first impression. I
consider this a small to price to pay for building strong relationships in my
site. Also, these animals were not tortured than slaughtered in a factory farm
like USA meat. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Family
style: Family comes first here, period. Work, friends, personal ambition,
wealth, all are secondary concerns. Also, extended families mostly live
together on a compound where multiple smaller houses will be on the same plot
of land and communal spaces like outdoor bathrooms and kitchens are shared by
all. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Honestly, I
feel very lucky to have been sent to such a gorgeous country filled with
generous people. However, I have to admit that there are times when I feel
confused, dumbfounded, and even frustrated by cultural clashes. In these
moments, keeping an open mind and open heart serve me well. Despite the
challenges of adapting to a new culture, there is no denying the unique and
life-changing impact from this experience. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-7249636976272639442012-04-06T16:21:00.002-07:002012-04-06T16:28:49.731-07:00Training Highs and Lows<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Last week,
a lifelong goal of mine came true, I swore in as an official Peace Corps
volunteer! After 3 months of training
which included 6 days of classes per week mostly 8 hour day Spanish classes, I
am finally an official volunteer and have moved into my site. I feel very
fortunate to have a site that was my first choice and even more spoiled to have
a kitchen with gas stove and OVEN!!! No more cooking on the wood stove for me! Btw,</span><span lang="EN-US"> I’ve found all essential pie
ingredients, however if you would like to send me nutmeg, chocolate, green tea, chai tea,
or any kind of tea, please feel free to do so!
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Upon crossing
over into volunteer-hood, I feel the need to reminisce on training highs and
lows for those of you interested in joining the Peace Corps or just curious
about the process. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Highs:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Homestay
family: really helps with language and learning about local culture<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Spanish
classes: absolutely essential for learning Spanish as well as local vocabulary
and accent<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Some
technical classes (classes about health, development, and Nica society): not
all were highs<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Volcano
Masaya trip! I suggest you go; you can drive straight up to the crater and take
an edgy hike around the brim of the craters <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Practicum
week (a week where we observe volunteers in their work): super busy but we went
to the BEACH in Corrinto so that made up for all the stress! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Site
Placement: I got the site I wanted so it would be ridiculous not to include
this as a major HIGH! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Site
visit: I was beyond excited to see my new home, spent the week with an old
friend, and met a lot of counterparts and potential collaborators for work like
local NGOs, the casa materna, and health posts in the surrounding communities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Hiking up
a local Somoto peak with some youth! Got to see a gorgeous semi-ariel view of
the city that will be my home away from home for the next 2 years! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Swearing
In weekend in Managua: a few friends and I danced ALL night in a Managua night
club, than lazed around by a pool the next day only to have sushi and sangria
for dinner the following night… a Posh Corps weekend indeed that will only be
repeated on rare occasions seeing as that our salaries are low low low. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Lows:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Feeling
like a child again in your host family because they cook and clean for you and
you are a 25 year old with a curfew again<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-some
technical sessions that were repeated or on just on Saturday mornings lol <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Fishbowl
feeling in my tiny training town which will hopefully be alleviated by living
in a city now<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Always being around the same people, classes
all day with the same group of people gets old </span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thankfully, I have more highs than lows for training and am optimisitc that my service will produce the same results. </span></span>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-60773390833442261582012-03-18T15:10:00.004-07:002012-05-17T20:25:00.907-07:00Somoto Lovin'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week,
I visited my site, Somoto, Madriz (the place where I will be living and working
for the next 2 years) and fell in love with it! When we received our site list,
there were 9 options and after reviewing Somoto’s description I knew I wanted
it, then after reviewing the rest, I wanted it even more. I wanted Somoto, not
only for its location (mountains, department capital, easy access to highway
for traveling, and a sweet canyon nearby for swimming and hiking) but also for
the focus of the work there, more sexual and reproductive health and an
opportunity to work with at risk youth in poorer neighborhoods of the city.
That being said, I waited anxiously for 2 weeks to find out my site since Peace
Corps Nicaragua chooses it for you. And when I opened my neatly wrapped site
packet and saw SOMOTO!!! I cheered and actually cried tears of joy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/424032_10100299845429204_5311860_46389104_636476918_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/424032_10100299845429204_5311860_46389104_636476918_a.jpg" /></a>This photo is of Somoto from the top of a local peak that we hiked up with some of the local youth. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">To make the
story even sweeter, I am actually replacing a friend of mine. Five years ago, I studied abroad in Nairobi,
Kenya and befriended another American girl in my program. She came to Nicaragua in 2010 and was placed
in Somoto. After 2 years, her Peace
Corps service is up and she will be leaving Somoto in April, when I begin my 2
year service there. Not sure, how often friends replace friends in the Peace
Corps but I have a hunch that this is rare. Last week during my site visit, she
was an excellent guide and introduced me to a lot of great NGOs I can work
with, the casa materna, the city Mayor, and the health centers where I will
working as well as friends and some of the youth that I will working with also.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">First day,
we met with a local NGO that took us out to rural communities including all
indigenous community to see some of the work and possible options for further
work. This community was formed after
all of their houses and belongings were destroyed by a flood. Therefor this
Nicaraguan organization built new homes for the people as well as a craft
center where the women can create pottery and other crafts for selling to bring
in income for their families. An Irish NGO, which I will be working with, built
their first and only school. One of the most striking moments of my visit was
my trip to the neighborhood where over half the families are missing latrines
therefore they just go outside and people are living in houses made from
sticks, plastic sheeting, and cardboard.
I’ve seen these living conditions before in the slums of Kenya but was
still shaken by seeing this on the outskirts of a small, tranquil city like
Somoto. However, I am very excited to
work with the youth there since some attend an afterschool center called Los
Quinchos where they learn trades that will help them earn more money as adults
and hopefully break out of the cycle of poverty. I also visited a couple other NGOs in Somoto
and a couple health posts in the outlying communities. One thing is for sure, I will be busy, busy
and I’m happy about that. There is definitely no shortage of work or need
there. <o:p></o:p></span><a href="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/421745_10100299818632904_5311860_46388950_1942059285_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/421745_10100299818632904_5311860_46388950_1942059285_a.jpg" /></a> Some of the plastic and cardboard houses that need latrines.<br />
<a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/424032_10100299845424214_5311860_46389103_2128153040_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/424032_10100299845424214_5311860_46389103_2128153040_n.jpg" width="320" /></a> We did it! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This photo is of Somoto from the top of a local peak that we hiked up with some of the local youth. </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Everyone
including my new family were very welcoming, kind, and all asked “Are you
Nicaraguan or latina?” because of my sun tanned skin. Funny considering how pale I am when I live
in cloudy Seattle versus here. My new home
is adorable! I have a one room casita (small house) with a covered porch and a
teeny kitchen that has a mini fridge and gas stove/oven!!! So excited about
this since I will be cooking for myself. The shower and bathroom is outside but
it is an actual showerhead so when the water is on, I will not be taking a
bucket bath. I am so spoiled and so thankful about it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I move to
Somoto for good on April 1<sup>st</sup> and will keep you updated on my work
and life there. Until then, I highly suggest that you google Somoto, Madriz,
Nicaragua or even the Somoto Canyon so you can see for yourself how beautiful
it is here. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-1809116919281917882012-03-04T09:31:00.002-08:002012-06-02T21:27:43.571-07:00Confronting my biggest fear… while nakedLast
Tuesday morning, the power was out again. My house is made of concrete and has no paint so despite having windows
it is still very dark inside our house during the day. That being said, I got up, got a bucket of
water from the well in the back, which my host mother complemented wonderfully
with a small pot of boiling hot water so its not freezing, then headed to the bathroom to take a
bucket bath like I do every morning. However, this morning a hopefully rare
surprise awaited me. As usual I scoped the bathroom for spiders, scorpions, rats and
cock roaches. Seeing none in the dark, I de-robed, hopped in and began to lather up. I squat in the shower to prevent lot of
splashing since the shower curtain has holes in it. It is important to mention the squatting
since my delicate parts were close to the floor in this vulnerable position. So
while naked, squatting, and soapy, I see something crawl quickly to my side,
inches away from my right foot. I look over and see a TARANTULA bigger than my
fist!!!!! Without thinking, I screamed
and jumped over the toilet, slipped on the floor since I’m soapy remember. As I’m about to open and run out the door, I
realize, “Holy shit, I’m naked!!!” So I have to grab my robe which is now
eerily close to the tarantula that is crawling its way up the wall. That being
said, I grab my robe, shake it vigorously (in case he has friends hanging out in
there), and wrap it around me. Then I run to my room grab my super-size can of
RAID and RAID bomb the shit out this monster.
Imagine a mushroom cloud of raid. There is no way, I’m not getting
cancer because of this. Despite the Raid
bomb, this damn thing still lives and slowly creeps its way out of the
bathroom. It’s obviously struggling so I stomp on it. Then my host mom walks by and stomps on it again to make sure its dead.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The funny thing is I did not realize or did
not want to admit that I had just bathed with my biggest fear, a fucking
tarantula until my host mother said, “Pico caballo
grande!” Finally, validation from the woman who constantly tells me that all
the spiders in my room are small or skinny. Trust me, they’re neither. Furthermore, they call Tarantulas, Pico Caballos or horse
biters here because when they bite horses, they paralyze them! So yea, I had a dangerous tarantula in my
bath, inches from my lady parts that could paralyze me with its venom. I can't think of worse place to bit by a tarantula than my lady bits. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In other
news, with the help of the sun, I accomplished an integration goal this
weekend. I got into a cab which happened
to have 2 other Peace Corps volunteers in it that I do not know and they both
thought I was Nicaraguan!!! That is of course until I opened my mouth and spoke
Spanish in my distinctly American accent, lol. <o:p></o:p></span>Oh Nicaragua, how I love you. </div>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-50444372193794252782012-01-16T13:54:00.000-08:002012-01-16T13:54:55.714-08:00First post from Nicaragua!This is my frist post from Nicaragua and I will try my best to keep up with this thing but am making no promises. Last weekend I moved in with my first host family in the small town of Guisiquiliapa (whiskey-lee-a-pa) near Jinotepe in the Carazo department. My family is very kind and consists of a mom, a dad, and their 4 year old son, Nicolino in their small house. I have my own room in their 2 bedroom house. For income, my host dad makes and sells organic highly fertilized dirt. They also have horses, roosters, hens, a dog, a cat, and unfortunately cockroaches. I promise to post pictures soon. Side note, mosquitoes love me and despite wearing repellant, I have more than 12 bites already that itch like crazy. Good thing I´m on antimalarials! Fingers crossed, I don´t get dengue. <br />
<br />
My days consist of 6 hours of spanish class 4 days a week. Two other days per week are classes on Nicaragua, safety, their status of health, and our jobs that we will be doing. Since I will be teaching nutrition at the <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/pacificnw/2016783083_pacificpdogood27.html">casa maternas</a>, my fellow Maternal and Child health volunteers and I will undergo gardening classes as well. My family is patient with my poor spanish and speaks slowly and repeats things for me when I don´t understand. I am already surprised by how much spanish I remember and how well I am improving. My family and spanish teacher here speak NO english so I have no choice but to speak in spanish. Actually, right now I am having a hard time typing in english and not spanish because my mind is set to spanish. Also, this week I have to start a youth group with 2 other volunteers and teach them how to teach safe sex practices with others and other health information. <br />
<br />
Nicaragua is a poor country but the people so far are very pleasant and it is beyond beautiful. I can´t wait to see more of the country especially the volcanoes and islands where are a plenty. Nicaragua´s tagline is, Land of Lakes and Volcanoes. <br />
<br />
That is all for now folks. Pictures to come!Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4635460923476606841.post-72828404539240411122011-10-29T12:25:00.000-07:002011-10-29T12:38:06.581-07:00Best News Ever!<span style="color: #660000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">After months of agony and anxiety over getting a Peace Corps placement and job assignment fitting to my interests and experience, I finally have one that is just perfect! NICARAGUA!!! That's right, as of January 2012, I will be moving Nicaragua to work on Maternal Child Health programs specifically on improved nutrition and hygeine practices. If you know me, then you probably agree on how perfect the assignment and placement country is. My educational background in Spanish, International Development and Global Health as well as volunteer/research experience in women's health education is going to be put to good use. I've got a lot of paperwork to get through in the next two weeks to solidify my January departure but come 2012, stay tuned for updates on my life in Nicaragua! </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">To give a glimpse of the loooong Peace Corps Application process, here's my timeline:</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">December 2010: Completed online Peace Corps Application</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">March 2011: Interview with Seattle office recruiter</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">May 2011: Nomination to serve in Latin America in Health programs</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">June 2011: Dental and Medical clearance received </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">August 2011: Notice of departure deferment </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">September 2011: Final interview with placement office</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">October 26, 2011: Official invitation to Nicaragua (apparently Peace Corps was kidding about the deferment) </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">October 26, 2011: I officially accepted the invite, pretty much as soon as I got it!</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">January 10, 2012: Staging </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RI9-YgEw9YA/TqxV4jzT9nI/AAAAAAAAADs/C0yIHtKkhvk/s1600/297687_694450159353_20203907_35492046_2118606230_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RI9-YgEw9YA/TqxV4jzT9nI/AAAAAAAAADs/C0yIHtKkhvk/s320/297687_694450159353_20203907_35492046_2118606230_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">January 11, 2012: Departure for NICARAGUA! </span>Cherriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12093704116440398707noreply@blogger.com0