Official Volunteer

Well, I made it through all the training and am now an official Peace Corps volunteer. I was sworn in Friday and met my new host family!

I had my language exam on Thursday. I didn't do great but I suppose good enough to pass me on. I really hoped to pick this language up quickly but I've definitely struggled with it. Just when i thought I was getting it...boom, I'm sucking yet again and feeling completely lost. I feel like an idiot at times, but what's new! Anyway, there's no crying in pohnpeian!

Our ceremony was pretty hi-larious. A few local leaders gave short speeches then we were sworn in by the country director. It took place directly outside our cafeteria area so it was right along the lagoon. Beautiful view! During the various speeches, the dogs entertained themselves by lounging on the "stage" and at one point a cat found the snacks. It was entertaining to say the least. The finale involved all us newbies dancing with sticks while chanting a local song. I meant to record it but accidently forgot my camera. But, other volunteers got pictures so there will be some great incriminating evidence.

After the ceremony I said my final goodbyes to my family. I was very sad to leave them. I can't imagine being in pohnpei and not living with them. They are fantastic and so loving. I'm so blessed to have entered this country with such great support. I will make it back to visit. Maybe not every weekend, as they all would like, but often enough.

I met my new family and rode home with them. I am now living about 30 minutes (walking) outside Kolonia. My family  includes a mother, Truscilla, father, Kiester, and 4 sons- Kiestrue, Kayward, Kaye, and DJ. These boys are darling! So handsome! The youngest is 3 and the oldest is 14. I will not be teaching any of them this year, but Kayward will have me as his teacher next year.

My house is lovely! My room has a closet and desk and is very big. The house is equipped with indoor plumbing!! I get to brush my teeth in a sink. It's the little things! My family seems very excited to have me here. They really want me to work with the boys in school. They too want to better their English. So expectations are set. It's nice to finally be in my placement.

I also started teaching at my school in Sekere. The first day my teacher was late gettin to school, so I started my lessons immediately. No I was not prepared so I pulled some shit out of my ass. No fear. The kids seemed to enjoy it and honestly that is all that matters. My brothers and cousins walked me to and from school. It was quite precious.

Not much more to report here. Not many funny stories as of late. Though I am searching high and low for some goodies! So please stay tuned.

PS (can one include a ps on a blog?)... I am no longer allergic to sakou! You have no idea how happy I am about this! Freak face is gone for good. Though my nose is swollen and cut from hitting it 2 times on my glass blinds when attempting to shoosh the damn roosters from outside the window...at 3 am...so loud! Old MacDonald can suck it.