Likes
Mangos
Wild, colorful clothing
Beautiful children greeting me by my name
Fresh, cold bucket baths
Running on the dirt roads
The generosity of the Malian people
My hammock
Homemade peanut butter
My womens' group
Escapes to Bamako
Dancing to zylophones
Putting American $ to good use
Riding my bike
Joking Cousins
Dislikes
Rotten mangos on the street
Dirty, sweaty, ripped clothing
Annoying bratty children taunting me
Bathing with dirty water
Running in the heat
The slow-to-action tendancies of the Malian people
The way my back feels after sleeping in my hammock
The extra pounds I've gained from basing my diet on homemade peanut butter
The social status of women
Transport to Bamako
Being forced to dance your 3rd zylophone dance when its late and you're exhausted
The fear of pouring money down the development drain
Changing my bike's frequent flat tires
Troures, Coulibalies, and Boares
Dad, I'm trying to wear your "happy glasses". They get dirty out here in the Sub-Saharan, but I try to clean them off when they do.
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4 comments:
Hey Em,
I try not to ever compare my experience here in the US to yours in Mali. I have more than what I need for sure. I will say however that your frustration with the slow pace and your inability to get what you want done resonates with me. I graduate next Monday and with the economy the way it is things seem very slow and gloomy. There is nothing more frustrating then wanting to do work and not being able to do it. I just take heart knowing that if there is a person strong enough to push through these slow times is you. If sometimes you feel like you arn't making enough changes there I want you to know that you are constantly helping me chart my life path. Much love from home.
-Tucker
Hi Em,
Katy H. (my daughter) told me to start reading your blog from the beginning. I started today. I'm only at October 4, 2008 so far but I've laughed some and cried a lot. I'm inspired by your tenacity, encouraged by your love for others, astonished by your physical prowess in overcoming all you have. Your family is justifiably proud of you and I am simply humbled by you. I will continue reading and catch up to the latest entries in a few days. Be safe, stay well and know that what you're doing there benefits the people of Mali, it strengthens you and it inspires the rest of us. God bless you.
Mr. H.
Hey Em,
A friend of mine just got her Peace Corps placement and it is in Mali. Her name is Meghan Mills. I remember you saying that you are getting a new volunteer soon and I wonder if it is her. You might just bump into each other soon. Figured I would give you a heads up. Good luck to both of you.
-Tucker
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