Okay... first off I am sorry it has been so long since my last entry I will do my best to keep you all updated!
Homestays offically started on the June 28th!! Me and 6 other health volunteers piled into a van/truck vehicle and headed to our village! During the drive, lets say 20 minutes in, it dawns on us.. PCV's in West Africa are hard core....AND we are the hard core of Burkina since we have the longest bike ride in (17-20 km) which takes us about 1 hour 15!
The first night with my family is REALLY interesting... lots of silences and hand gestures!! The village speaks mainly moore (Mor-ray)which is one of the local languages. I only know greetings and everytime I say something they all just laugh at me!! Also this is a large family... lots of kids!!
The food is simple, good (for the most part), and has LOTS of oil!! :)
At the moment we have left the villages and moved down south. We celebrated the 4th at a pool with a wonderful lunch that included burgers, salad, potatoes, and CAKE!! It felt so great to relax, swim, play soccer and destress!!
TODAY: All the health volunteers visited a CSPS (Centre do Sante et Promotion Sociale) which is basically the health center... this is basically where someone would come if they are sick, for family planning, pre and post natale, etc etc...
We looked over records today... these are at every CSPS and can help volunteers identify the needs of the community. Very exciting!!
Lastly... driving through town... is always interesting... and I don't think I will ever get used to being stared at! ha :)
glad you are enjoying it so far! i can't wait to hear more...stay safe and love ya!!
ReplyDelete~colleen
Sounds like your holiday went very well. You must be meeting many new friends and discovering a lot about yourself and the people you are with! The adventure continues.... don't let the laughing get to you! Keep trying to speak!!! It is THE best way to find a comfort level! Love you - MOM
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