Recently, I went through old journal entries to recall my thoughts and feelings before coming into the Peace Corps. I had repeatedly worried that I would wake up one day in July and ask myself just exactly what the heck I am doing in Africa. That day never came, at …
Time flies when you are having fun! Can’t believe it’s already October! I continue to love my village, meeting new people every day, getting wonderful support from my Chinese and French friends, meanwhile learning to tame my temper with quirky Cameroonian behaviors. The latest of my bad temper towards Cameroonians …
Although Kate left my house this week, I continue to have my fill of white people in my day, thanks to the French volunteers here. Juliete and Greg are my new best friends, and I am theirs. Reason? They are my age, both 22, and finishing their university degree but …
Today marks the end of first month at post and my first night alone. Kate successfully made it to her post long enough to stay the night today and now I am completely alone. It’s a bit strange, but definitely much needed alone time. Not that I minded Kate’s company, …
Some days, things take place so smoothly much to my surprise; today was one of those days. This morning could have gone like this: I could’ve left my house and not able to find a moto into town and have to walk 30 minutes. Once I reach the Carrefour, I …
These past few days, I’ve been very impatient with tidbits of life here. Most of the frustrations have to do with transportation and big city living. The more I spend time in my quaint village, the more easily I get angry at the big cities. Kate is still staying with …
Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! I spent the day with my people celebrating the holiday. I am now officially more Chinese here in Cameroon than I ever was in the U.S. I don’t remember the last time I celebrated this holiday. When it comes to celebrating, the Chinese loves to incorporate eating. …
Happy Birthday to moi! Last year yesterday, I submitted my application for the Peace Corps, and a year later, here I am. First birthday in Africa, but completely Chinese style. Thanks to my wonderful Chinese friends and Kate, my would’ve-been-lonely-birthday this year turned out to be quite fun! The morning …
Second week at post is coming to an end, and I am starting to feel more like a member of this community. My house is coming along nicely. The walls are painted baby blue and I’ve added a few personal touches to make it mine. As Kate puts it, I’ve …
Hi Friends! Sorry I have been MIA for a while. These past week and a half has been a crazy whirlwind, and certainly been the best time since I arrived in country. I will do my best to recap and also section off this long entry for easy reading! Yaounde …