Rest in Peace Ashley Earl

Lately, days seem to be a rollercoaster of emotions -

between work-related happenings, cultural adjustments, and missing friends and family.

But Sunday made life a little tougher, here in Namibia, for us Volunteers.

I have been in Windhoek since Sunday, to mourn the loss, but celebrate the life, 

of Ashley Earl - one of the Volunteers, who lived up north with me. 

She had just completed her service....

All of the volunteers have been here for each other, which has helped us get through this tough, yet confusing time. It's been really nice to be here for my friends who were in her group, and for those who were great, great friends with her. It's also been good for all of us, to be around each other - fellow Volunteers, fellow Americans.

Ashley, may you rest in peace. You and your crazy, fun, sweet spirit will always be in our hearts and minds, and with us through the rest of our service, and beyond. I am thankful I got to know you for a short time over here in Oland in Namibia, and will always think of your smile and laugh! You were one of the most confident, strongest women I knew (I think we all feel this way!) and that has helped inspire me, and the rest of us Volunteers. I only hope that someday I can be half as strong as you! And even with that strength, you were also one of the sweetest, most patient and kind people I have met. I remember you saying to me "You know, when I first met you, I wasn't sure about you. But yeah, I like you." And you were never afraid to "tell it like it is" or how you felt. Though you did it in a way that was never attacking a person's character. You said exactly how you felt, and we all love that about you! 

We are all still in shock and sadness and anger, and wishing our questions could be answered. But I know you're looking down at us, probably rolling your eyes at the fact that tears have flowed for you over the last few days, and during the memorial service yesterday. :) PCNam will never ever forget you and your commitment, friendship and service, to your friends, your family (who you LOVED to tell us all about!), the children you helped here, and all of us volunteers. 

Miss you my friend!

And here in the official press release from the Peace Corps:

(http://www.peacecorps.gov/media/forpress/press/2342/)

Peace Corps Mourns the Loss of Volunteer Ashley Earl

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 10, 2014 – Peace Corps Acting Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet is saddened to confirm the death of Peace Corps volunteer Ashley Earl. Ashley, 30, passed away in her host community of Oshakati, Namibia on Saturday.

“Ashley was an exceptional Peace Corps volunteer, deeply engaged in her work with the youth of Oshakati,” Acting Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet said. “The entire Peace Corps family is devastated by this loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”

Ashley, of Kent, Wash., entered service as a Peace Corps volunteer in Namibia on March 13, 2012. Since that time, she has been serving as a community health volunteer, working with Catholic AIDS Action and coordinating after-school activities for youth in her community of Oshakati, in northern Namibia.

Peace Corps Namibia staff describe Ashley as “gregarious, engaging and unfailingly polite,” and as a volunteer who “cared deeply for her students, and taught them to show respect for others as well as respect for themselves.”

Ashley’s fellow volunteers, counterparts and friends in her community loved her spirit, frequent laughter and quick wit. Ashley referred to the children she worked with as “my kids,” and her colleagues said that those children were “so much better off for having her in their lives.”  

A graduate of Central Washington University, Ashley earned a Bachelor of Arts in law and justice, and in sociology, as well as a master’s degree in social work from Eastern Washington University. Her commitment to service began prior to joining the Peace Corps, as she served for six years in the United States Army Reserve, and worked as a visitation facilitator at the Spokane, Wash., Child Abuse network, at the Women’s Studies Center of Cheney, Wash., and at the Veterans’ Coalition of Ellensburg, Wash.

At the start of her Peace Corps service, Ashley pointed to her “determination” as the professional attribute she would most rely on, and said that while “a person might not be able to help everyone, I will feel fulfilled if I could help as many as want to be helped.” She wrote, “I am hoping that I will be able to instill or inspire positive change in the community I will be working with.”

Ashley was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge who also enjoyed watching movies, doing needlepoint and exercising in her spare time. She is survived by her parents, Phylliss and Lee Lundquist, and her beloved sister, Stacy Earl, in Washington state. 

p.s. Thank you so much to all of the Peace Corps Staff and Trainers - even though we are all going thru this together, you have helped us Volunteers in so so many ways during this tragic time, with the extra time and effort you have made for each of us, and all you are doing for Ashley and her family back at home! Thank you all sooo much again....

Sweets & Gifts

Here in Namibia, a “sweet” is ANY kind of candy – hard candy, chocolate, cookies, etc. And children LOVE sweets. Here in the village, they really don't eat many – there are some hard candies in the cuca shops, and cookies and other sweets in the shopping town, but people don't usually spend the little money they have on these treats.

Well, every time I walk by the headman's house and say hello to the children, they greet me back...and then ask for sweets. Well, actually, when they translate to English, they more or less tell me “Give us sweets”. So, one day, I told them next time I went to town, I would get some for them. When I finally saw them again, it was during their exam week. I told them, after exams, they would get their sweets. Finally, it was that Friday – the last day of exams, and I gave them a package of lollipops! They loved them....

This past weekend, I went to Ongwediva for the Annual Trade Fair. There were lots and lots of booths set up by Namibian businesses, universities and government agencies. My reasoning for going, was to be able to speak with people from the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Water & Sanitation. I wanted to find out my options for possibly getting seeds, a fence and a water pipe for our clinic garden. I was told that I actually may get some help (free, or close to free, of charge) with these items. Success!! Now, is follow-up time, to actually make sure this can happen....

Anywho, after talking with them, I walked around outside, browsing all the booths that were selling little items. Many of these booths carried the same items – we call them “China shop” items. All around Namibia, people from China have come and set up shops. They carry anything from clothes, to mattresses (very thin ones), to bags, to plates, to blank cds, to solar panels, to wardrobes to hang your clothes, to sunglasses, to toys – and everything in between. The quality is, well, not the best, but they are usually inexpensive, and sometimes you can do a little haggling, and get a better deal...

Well, one of the booths had these little bags that I've been wanting to get for my brother, Nafimane. He's a soccer player, and one day was playing soccer at school with some of the teachers – withOUT his shoes. And, of course, he came home, limping. I told him, that if you're a soccer player, you need to carry your shoes with you at all times! Ha! He laughed. Well, I wanted to get him this little bag to carry his shoes with him...and I finally found it. So, of course, after that, I realized that the rest of the kids, AND my older sister, AND my Meme, would feel bad if I didn't get them anything. So, here goes Johanna – shopping at the trade fair for the whole family! I found a little phone holder for Meme, because the puppies have ruined the one I made her. Then some earrings for my sister Anna (32yo), sunglasses for little Jaden (1yo), little slingshots for Hedimbi (11yo) and Junior (5yo) (they LOVE Angry Birds – so I thought I'd get them their own slingshots), and a play phone for little Tuuli (Nongula's daughter), who is 2 years old.

Then I needed to get something for my niece, Tuuli, who is 15 and Nongula, who is the girl who watches little Jaden during the day. I decided to get them each some nail polish – one sparkly purple, and red for the other.

Since I came back from the weekend, I only gave out some of the gifts – to those who were around. I was waiting to give Tuuli and Nongula theirs later today, or tomorrow. There is another girl from the village who is staying with us. I had no clue she was going to be here, and so I didn't get her anything, and felt it would be best to hand out Tuuli and Nongula's gift AFTER she left. Of course, I have no idea when she is leaving. Sometimes, it seems, children will stay with other families for a few days – and my Meme is friends with her parents. So, maybe there is a reason she is with us....

Well, this morning, before I went to work, Tuuli said “Miss Johanna. You said you had gifts for us.” Ugh. I felt really bad doing this in front of the other girl. So, I went into my hut, took the nail polish, and gave them their gifts (Tuuli and Nongula were so happy). As I did this, I told the girl, I was sorry I didn't have anything for her – but next time, I will get her something. She said “ok”, but looked sad. It broke my heart. So I said “Wait one minute – I will be right back.” And I went back to my hut. I was going to give her my own nail polish. See, after being in sports medicine and then massage for the last almost 20 years, and unable to grow my nails, I decided I was going to start growing them and looking like a girl, and maybe even paint them! Well, of course, just when I decide to get all girled-up, I come to a country where we eat with our hands. And having nails, just becomes a very messy problem. So, the nail polish that I had brought with me, I really don't NEED. And if I want, I can always get more. I grabbed 3 colors – blue, purple, and a clear, sparkly one. I was going to let her choose 1 color.

As I brought them to her, she at first got very excited and thought she could have all 3. I told her she could pick just one color. Then, of course, I realized, you don't show these kids something and then tell them they CAN'T have it. (Maybe, if I was a mother, and had children of my own, or had worked more with children, I would have already known this fact!). She looked down and a little sad. So, I said “Ok – you can all have and SHARE all of these!” These girls so soooooo excited! They were jumping and dancing and singing! To be honest, these girls work hard, pounding mahangu, cutting meat, cutting firewood, making oshifima and other foods, and their hands are dirty most of the time. I really didn't know if they would even like, or want to use, the nail polish. But, at the end of the day, girls will be girls. And when they get a the opportunity to dress up, and look “girly” they love it!

As I said goodbye for the day, and started my trek to work, I could hear them laughing and singing....and I hope I just made their day....

It really is the little things in life that mean the most....and I am learning this more and more everyday....

:)

Here is a picture of Jaden, with his new glasses, and his father, (my brother), Grape

(notice Jaden's shirt - "Monster Trouble" - and yessss he is! But adorable trouble..

Tears of gratitude

I know this is the biggest tease ever, but I had to share something quickly with everyone....

I am about to go to sleep in a tent at the home of our cleaning lady's parents. Her name is Olivia. She is getting married tomorrow. And I'm her photographer!

The party started tonight...and will end Monday night. I will write more about  the entire celebration later, including pictures...

But...

Tonight I had the honor of being part of a traditional ritual, where the bride and her bridesmaids (she has 14!) sit in a hut, and are greeted by guests. Only 3 guests came. But this was expected (I think!). And when the guests arrived, they greeted each of us separately, but we were supposed to be rude, and not shake their hand or respond. Apparently, they have to "earn" our greeting. We all had a very hard time keeping a straight face, and pretending to ignore or be rude to these people. We all were aware this was a ritual, but still, we had to do it. It was pretty funny. Eventually, we could respond to the guests' greeting...but not shake their hand yet. (Thankfully I was sitting next to my supervisor's daughter, who speaks English, and was able to talk me through this entire ritual). 

So.... The point of this is...these "guests" are supposed to bring gifts. They brought in a big suitcase. After some time, still trying to "win" the bride's greeting, and ours as well (which was pretty funny to watch!), they opened the suitcase and in it was the flower girls' dresses, the bride's dress, veil, gloves, jewelry, the rings, 2 white umbrellas, edged with the color of the bridesmaids' dressed - maroon, and the bride's shoes. 

The bride finally "accepted" the guests, and we then went outside where a group of men had been singing all night - waiting to see the bride. There were many people, and they were singing and dancing and having a grand ol' time!

Besides wanting to share this story, I also had to share with you the overwhelming feeling of gratitude I had, while sitting in that hut. I looked around the room, and saw Olivia's bridesmaids of all ages. Some dressed in "westernized or modern" clothing, and some in traditional dresses. And I had this out-of-body experience of some sort...I just couldn't believe I was sitting in a traditional hut, surrounded by beautiful Namibian women in traditional dress, in a village, in Namibia, in AFRICA, and was able to be a part of this ritual! I mean, this is a common occurrence here in Namibia, and in the villages. And yet, 6 months ago, I had no clue this was even going on! And all of you- in the U.S. or any other country- you have no idea about what is going on here. Just like these Namibians have no clue what you are all doing. It's just an odd thing to think about - or maybe I'm just weird. But we are all in our own little worlds, doing our own little thing, meanwhile, another person, maybe the same age as you, on the other side of the globe, could be doing exactly the same thing as you! Or maybe not. I don't know...maybe I am weird. But tonight I realized that I am able to get a little peek of what another person in another country is doing. And then I start thinking about what, maybe someone in China, or France, or Chile, or Iraq is doing at this moment...

So anyway, there is my brain for ya'll! 

Oh, by the way...since I am her photographer, Olivia bought me a bridesmaid's dress!  So I guess I'm considered to be part of her wedding party! Wow. 

And as I was pinching myself, a little confused how I ended up here in Africa - who would have thought?? - and just so grateful that I am getting this experience, and out of nowhere, my eyes started filling up with tears...

I just couldn't believe that I was getting this opportunity- AND to be asked to be included and participate!

Oh, and Olivia's dress? I have never seen anything quite as beautiful! I will post pictures later, but it is a white gown of satin and lace and even some sparkles! She is going to look amazing....

And I just hope my camera cooperates and helps me get the most perfect pictures for her big day!

Peace & Weddings,

Johanna

p.s. many women here have decided that I should marry a Namibian, specifically, an Owambo man....

:)

Life is funny....

So, there I was, in Nashville, USA All stressed and worried over things that no longer matter I had priorities which kept me, now looking back, away from people I truly cared about - and who truly cared for me Or, I should say, my priorities were a little warped Because I thought certain things needed to be a priority I was in a rut A comfortable rut
And now, here I am in Namibia, AFRICA! And man, let me tell you If you ever need a wake-up call from LIFE Or need your head re-adjusted Or need a new view of people and the world (one of my MAIN reasons for joining PC) And need to get UNcomfortable for a while
Because then Only then Will you find what you are truly made of And what truly makes you tick And you become stronger because of it And you realize that the things in this life that make you happy Are really never those things you THOUGHT were "making you happy"
And only then Can you get yourself back on track And find the real YOU Even if you now have another home on the other side of the globe It has helped to bring out YOU The best in you The worst in you But the TRUE YOU!
And of course I'm still learning And growing
So, ask me in 21 months if this still remains true
But for now, Even through the frustrating, stressful times The times I have no clue what the heck is going on around me Or how I can even help Or just want a shower In a house with white walls and clean floors And a sink with running water And I miss my car And I'm losing my independence I have worked so hard to create and manage And never liked relying on anyone else (Now, I see that probably was a mistake on my part - in past friendships and relationships) I'm loving this personal journey that I'm on!
Peace & Love, Johanna <3


(By the way, PINK - especially BRIGHT pink - is the traditional Owambo color - and it's kind of funny - I'm finding myself buying new flip-flops, hut shoes, and other clothing that have this color in it...and all these years I stayed away from it...even though, this was one of my favorite colors growing up...just ask my mom - my room was made of pinks and purples...Funny how, years later, I'm returning to the original Johanna!)

What has Johanna been up to.....

I got an email from a friend the other day - yelling at me for not updating the blog (just kidding, she wasn't yelling - just wondering!), and letting her know what I have been up to….

So here it is….

Work:

I am now spending more time at the school - and will soon, hopefully, get to the other 6 local schools (oh, and the trek on foot will be far!). I am assisting with Grade 9& 10 Life Skills classes, as well as the AIDS Awareness Club. This will be my main project (hopefully). There will be a few other secondary projects - plant a garden for the clinic, educate on nutrition and health (through a program the PC has provided us with) to the HIV/AIDS patients, expecting mothers, as well as mothers with very malnourished children. And there are soooo many other little and big projects that can be done, associated with all of these things - I'm just taking 1 thing at a time right now….So I've been researching HIV/AIDS, AIDS Awareness Clubs, and everything related to HIV in Namibia. I am also hoping to start using the World Wise School Program with a few teachers back in the US. I have a few ideas, that include the PE program at the school, along with after-school sport activities - as well as general education/information that can be exchanged between my learners here in Namibia, and those in the U.S. If you are a teacher, and interested, please contact me on the Contact tab! For more information on World Wise Schools, and what it's all about, click HERE.

There is soooo much I can do here - but I'm learning to take one task at a time….this run at a much slower pace here in Namibia, and maybe it's for the best - for me at least! haha!

Also, I'm heading to a week-long training next week, with my counterpart. Here, we will set up and design my main project! I'm excited to see all of my American Volunteer friends, and enjoy life outside of the village for a short bit….

Village Life:

I am in the process of learning how to make traditional beer! It's actually not alcoholic - unless I let it sit for a few days - but my family doesn't really drink, and so we're making it nonalcoholic. I'll be cooking it tonight - and we'll drink it tomorrow! Pictures to come soon….

Also, I've been learning more about how to turn the mahangu grain into flour - by pounding it. It's pretty hard to do! I have a video of my attempt at learning this skill - and hopefully, I can upload this video….

Communication:

I have been trying to find a good offline blog program (If anyone knows of any good ones, please let me know! And free, if possible!), as well as breaking down and getting internet capability in my hut - though we will see how well it works, since the network is not that great here….

Travel:

After my week-long training, a few of us will be celebrating a fellow PCV's birthday - in Swakopmund - on the beach!!! I'm excited for this, and hoping to get some great pictures, and of course, vacation time….

Blog:

I am slowly uploading pictures and videos of other fun things I've been doing since arriving in Namibia. The internet is very slow (I tried to upload a 3.5 minute video to YouTube, and it said it would take 2387 minutes to upload!)….so patience is something I am definitely learning…..but now that I"m "connected" more, I will be posting more updates!

Other than that, things are wonderful. I have my moments of frustration - this is definitely the biggest personal challenge I have ever experienced - and highly recommend it for everyone! It is testing my limits and boundaries, and also helping me to create new and improved boundaries and self-confidence, as well as teaching me about myself, people, the world, and more…..

If you have any specific questions (and no question is a dumb question - believe me, I've probably asked myself the same questions, and have already had a few friends as "strange" questions - but the only way to learn, is to ask, right??) please, contact me - either through a comment, here on the blog, private email (for those with my email address), or the Contact form. I will answer your questions, and more…and even post my responses here on the blog, or all to learn…. :)

Also, I just went to the post office yesterday, and picked up TWO packages, plus a letter from a friend! I love receiving things from my friends and family in America - it really means a lot - even if it's just a letter! If you do want to send a package with some fun things and/or pictures of you so I can hang on my hut wall, check out my Contact tab for more info - address, a few specific items I am missing from home and more….

Love and miss everyone, but am so happy where my life has taken me….All of those "wrong" turns were, apparently, the CORRECT roads for me to take!!!

Peace & Love,

Johanna

A few more lessons...

I have I only been here for about 3.5 months, but have already learned a few things about life...and I wish I had figured these out a long time ago...ahhh, but as the proverb says:

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."

So, here are a few more lessons I'm passing on....

Celebrate the rain. But do not disturb it. 

Walk with the sand. Don't try to fight it. 

Treasure every moment. Live in the moment.  And don't rush your time or conversation with people. Every minute that passes is one minute longer you are able to share a moment and enjoy this person. 

Listen to Namibian (sounds like "Island") music everyday. 

You call it extreme camping.

They call it everyday living. 

You call it off-roading.

They call it a trip to the supermarket. 

Mahangu and soghum have many uses - hard porridge (oshifima - sort of like harder mashed potatoes), soft porridge (like oatmeal), a (soft)drink, beer, baby food, chicken feed, pig food, dog food....just to name a few....

Laughter is a great form of communication.

Let nature take its course, and don't try to get in it's way or control it..and things will always work out the way they are supposed to....

Ndapandula

Ndapandula...

Or, in English:

I am thankful...

And today, I am thankful for our trusty protector, Snoop! He followed me all the way to work, and sat right outside the clinic, wagging his tail anytime I would pass by the door, or sit outside. Too cute...(and the locals laugh because they think it's funny that I like to pet him, and then they say "Yes, he likes you!")

And I guess now is the perfect time to let you know that I also have an Oshiwambo name! It seems everyone here has 2 names - and I don't just mean a first name and surname. But instead, 2 first names. Or you could say it is a regular and traditional name. 

Well, soon after I got here to site, I was sitting with my younger brother and niece and nephew, and told them I wanted an Oshiwambo (the name given to the Namibians who live in the north) name. 

They talked amongst themselves, laughed a little, while one said "no, we can't give her THAT name", and then they finally came up with a name for me: 

Ndapandula. 

It means "I am thankful". 

And I think they chose that name for me because I am always saying "thank you"! But, I also feel like it's very fitting, because I am very thankful for my life, and where I am now, and how I even got to this place, and my American family and friends, my Namibian family and friends, and where my this journey will lead me. 

So, maybe the kids have a sixth sense, but I think it's perfect!

So call me Ndapandula! :)

(And here's a picture of Snoop as he was escorting me in to work today)

A typical (work)day

I thought I would share with you a typical work day....and as of right now, I am still in the 3-months-of-observation stage. During this time, I am supposed to get to know the people in my village, meet the important people within the Ministry of Health and in the village, find out the needs of the community so I know in which direction I should be focusing my main project, and adjust to my new home life. 

Right now, winter is settling in, and so mornings and nights are a bit cold. I set my alarm clock for 6:15, but usually I am awakened around 5:30 by a combination of the rooster, my brother cleaning his truck with either a dance tune or church song playing on the radio, and the squeaky house door opening and closing. Either my sister, Anna, or niece,  Tuuli, light a fire outside, or are fetching water to put on the stove inside, to warm for my Meme to bathe. I can hear her go into the bathing area because it is next to my room (hut). I'm able to fall back asleep somewhat, but there is something comforting about listening to her humming a tune while bathing. And when she is done, I then can hear Anna take her turn bathing. Anna usually is singing as well, and after her bath, she usually yells a "Johanna, wa lele po!" (or, "Good morning!") At this point, it's about 6:30, and I know Meme will soon be walking by my hut, as she has about an hour-long walk ahead of her to get to the school where she works, and we always have a morning chat that usually consists of "Good morning", "how are you feeling today" and "have a nice day" - and usually in a combination of English and Oshikwanyama. So I prepare myself to get out of bed at this time, so as to not miss her...but I always dread getting out from under the blankets, where I'm snuggled up nice and warm, while the air in the hut feels so cold. But nature is calling, so I pull myself out of bed, throw on my coat, slip on my flip-flops, grab some toilet paper and head out to the latrine (toilet). I then realize how my hut is much warmer than the air outside (yes, every day, I have this realization) and quickly walk to the latrine, do my business, and hurry back. As I walk back, I can't help but notice the beautiful sky I'm walking towards. At the horizon, the sky is a pretty pink color, changing to yellow, white and then blue....as the sun rises. There are no clouds - just a rainbow-colored sky! 

Before going back into the hut, I make my way to the house, to put on my water for my coffee. I have come to the conclusion that, no matter what my lifestyle is, or where in the world I may be living, I still need at least 1 cup of coffee every morning!  

Some days, the bucket where we keep the water in the kitchen is empty, so I go fetch some from the tap outside. And some mornings, there is no clean pot to put the water in to boil, so I have a quick dish-washing session, put my water on the gas stove to boil, and then hurry back in to my warm hut and get the coffee ready in my French press (my one American luxury!). Still feeling a little cold, I usually warm myself up by doing some exercises in the room. I'm still trying to find the best time to workout, and mornings seem to be the best right now. I save the "sweaty" workout sessions for later in the day, but the cold mornings usually consist of some yoga, lunges and push-ups. This gets some blood flowing, and helps me warm up and wake up for the day. I don't want to sweat in the morning, because I usually bathe in the evening. I have tried to bathe in the morning, but the cold wind and air is just something I cannot seem to accept- no matter how hot the water in my bucket is! I would rather bathe after my day's work and workout, while the sun is still somewhat up, and the air is a little warmer.  And I'm sure this routine will change, come summertime....

I splash some water on my face and then go back to the house to grab the boiling water for my coffee. I then throw some eggs or oatmeal into the pot and let that begin to cook. As breakfast is cooking, I go back to the hut with my hot coffee, and while that is steeping, put my sunscreen on and change in to my work clothes. 

After getting myself put together for work, I go back in the house for my food. Some days I will stay in the kitchen to eat, while other days, I bring it back to my hut, and finish gathering my bag full of Oshiwkanyama notes, fruit, lunch and sometimes my computer.  I then brush my teeth, using a bucket as my sink, and when done, dump the used water out over the fence behind my hut (where the kids have also set up my own little clothes line for when I do my laundry).  

I put my "walking" sandals on, and throw a nice pair of "work" sandals or shoes into my bag. The sand I walk thru every day is like beach sand- very soft, but you sink into it. I have tried to wear closed-toe shoes, but they get filled with sand 5 minutes into my walk! So, sandals are the best option - I just have to rinse the sand off my feet when I get to work. 

I leave the house around 7:40, for my 20-minute walk to the clinic. I know my sister has wanted to walk with me a few times, as she leaves around 7:20 to go to her school (she is a teacher as well) but, to be honest, I like to walk by myself - to gather my thoughts for the day, and enjoy the scenery and sounds all around me. Between the donkeys, goats, birds, chickens, cattle, the sounds of kids in the distance as they make their way to school, and the occasional car driving around the village (not many people own cars, so it's a rare thing to have to move out of the way for a car, as it weaves around the trees, through the sand)..... it's kind of a "meditative moment" for me...

Ahhh...and the kids. Well, lately, it seems my solo journey to work doesn't last very long. I usually end up being escorted by a group of kids, who are walking in the same direction to school. And even if they're running late, they will slow down to walk with me, or speed up until they are next to, or just behind, me. They stare at me, and then laugh, and then talk amongst themselves. So I will greet them in Oshikwanyama. They smile and respond. Then I greet them in English. Now, let me just say that greeting each other is very important here in Namibia.  And when I greet an older person in the village, I always greet in Oshikwanyama (although I have had a few instances where they greet me first in either English or Afrikaans. Afrikaans is one of the Namibian languages - traditionally spoken by whites and also spoken in South Africa. So, when an elderly person sees me, they assume I speak Afrikaans (which is very close to German) or English. And when I ignore both, and greet in THEIR language of Oshikwanyama, they are usually delightfully pleased, and smile.) BUT, when I speak to the kids, I make sure to use a little English. They are all learning English in school, and it is an official language in Namibia- but when they go home, they are speaking their native tongue. And so they don't get much practice with English outside of school - and it is very important that they learn to speak it, if they want to go on to the University. And so from the greeting,  we either walk in silence, or attempt to have a conversation in one language or another. And if I look their way, I usually catch them looking at me, they smile, and then turn away. They are all very sweet. And they love it when I try to speak their language! So I'm starting to use this daily walk as a teaching session for myself....

When I finally get to the clinic, I first walk around and greet everyone. Again, greeting is very important- and shows respect. We then "dust" the entire clinic- countertops, doors, walls, etc., using soap and water. Our clinic opens at 8, but we usually don't start seeing patients until around 9.  Tea break is around 10. I will usually collect money from Julia (the receptionist) and Pene (my counterpart) and walk outside to the Memes selling fried fish, bread and fat cakes, and buy bread for all of us for the break or lunch. (I've developed an addiction to this bread! It's sooo good!) The Memes don't speak English, but love it when I attempt to greet them and have a conversation in Oshikwanyama.  Again, this is another time I like to use as a language teaching session for myself. They have no problem trying to help me pronounce the words correctly, and I think they just enjoy watching this white girl trying to speak their language! Ha! 

During the day, I am either 1. having a language tutoring session with Julia,  2. talking with Pene, or helping her with counting and separating medications for the nurses to dispense to the patients, or cleaning, or preparing the HIV room for testing.  She is also the HIV/AIDS coordinator and gives the Health education to the women who come for their first antenatal visit.  I observe these sessions, and maybe one day I'll be able to give it- but for now I just help with the logistics of making enough room for all the women, and sorting out the lab results from previous visits. Or 3. Self-study: I read information on my computer that the PC has given us. There is info on teaching, HIV/AIDS, information technology, neonatal and maternal care and info, fun things to do in Namibia, and so much more. There are also guides and books from the Ministry of Health, explaining all different health issues and policies the country is facing. So, between all of this reading material and studying Oshikwanyama, I am able to keep myself busy. 

I am also in the process of still trying to meet all of the "important" people. I was able to get to a nearby town to meet my supervisor's supervisor, at the district level. And hopefully next week I will be going to the regional hospital, to meet the person above the district supervisor. Also, this week is AIDS Awareness Week. I briefly met 2 of the teachers at the local school who teach life skills, and will be in charge of different events this week at the school. They told me they will come pick me up at the clinic one day this week, so I can be involved with the activities. I'm excited to see what they will be doing, because next year, I'm hoping to have a bigger role in these activities. 

Lunch is from 1-2, and then we close at 5. 

Sometimes, I am able to leave the clinic a little early, but at the end of my work day, I walk 20 minutes back home. Some days my mother or sister are walking by the clinic at the same time, and so I'm able to have company on the walk home. Once back home, I   greet anyone who may be at home. We catch up about the day, and then, since it is getting colder, and the sun is setting earlier, I fetch water and put it on the stove to heat for my bath. Although some days, I use the outside fire to heat my water. And sometimes, the house is so busy with movement and cooking and cleaning, that I don't bathe until after dark. But I try to avoid this, now that it's getting colder once the sun sets. When it was warmer, I actually loved bathing when the moon was out! Again, another "meditative moment" for me :)

We then eat. Food will be a whole separate post, because there is a LOT to say about it! But we either cook a traditional meal over the fire outside, or cook rice or pasta inside. Some days I cook my own meal- and make a little extra, so I can have lunch for the next few days as well.  I also need a little break from their food. Although it's very tasty, it is usually made with a lot of oil and salt, and we eat the meat right from the bone- fat and all. My stomach is just not used to this , and although I haven't had any major problems, I like to just eat some bland beans, vegetables and rice/pasta once in a while. (Again, there will be another separate post on food, food, glorious food!)

Even if I cook my own meal, I will usually eat with the family. They are so much fun to be around, and as I learn the language more, I'm hoping to be part of all of their conversations! But they really make an effort to speak in English, and so I need to make more of an effort to speak their language. But we sit around the fire, laughing and playing with the little baby, Jaden. I usually make some comment on how the "diamonds in the sky" are just beautiful! And I try to teach them about the different constellations and stars. Apparently, when they see a shooting star, it means someone passed away...

And yes, around the fire is where we like to exchange our cultural differences and learn more about each others' traditions and lifestyles. Even though I'm "out in the bush", in Africa, people are people are people. And we all have the same thoughts, wants, likes and dislikes....

And so my night with the family ends around 8 or so, and I go to my room, brush my teeth, climb into bed, tuck my mosquito net under my thin little mattress, wrap the 2 blankets around me, open my Kindle to read a little, and then fall asleep to the sounds of the goats, chickens, donkeys, dogs, and my family inside the house - usually singing and laughing and playing with Jaden....

And their love for life has given me an even newer excitement and love for my life...

And that is a typical day, here in the village...

Success

The skin on the top of my hands has been rubbed off from washing my clothes by hand. My flip-flops keep coming apart and are more "flopping" than flipping. The skin on the palms of my hands are blistered from learning how to beat mahangu (a part of the process of making the grain into flour, and will be explained more in a later post). And the blisters tore while I was learning how to make the traditional oil, ondjove, from omahuku nuts.  

But the cattle, goats, chickens, dogs, and some random children in the village kept me company. My brother plays Namibian music on his radio everyday- which sounds more like "Island" music! Our brand new puppies make me feel like a kid again. My heart warms when my little 11-month old cousin, Jaden, smiles at me every morning. Every day I'm adjusting more to the "Owambo" way of living (that is , like northern Namibians, especially in the villages). I am slowly able to communicate with the people of my village in their language.  New and exciting passions are developing for me, thru my observation at the clinic. I fall asleep, listening to my family sing songs, in perfect harmony, a capella, in  Oshikwanyama. I get to see diamonds in the sky every night. And right now, the radio in my Meme's house is playing Frank Sinatra. 

But most importantly, I'm learning, living, changing, and growing in to my true self....the Saricorn way....

I promise - updates are on their way - including pictures and video! If only the hut had a decent Internet connection - and 3G would be even better - but ahhh...such is this wonderful life  

:)

I learned to "shimmy"

***Here is a blog post I started writing about a week and a half ago- before PST (pre-service training) was over. I figured, I should finish this before moving on in my story of my Peace Corps service....***


I'm writing this at the little cafe near our training center, waiting on a tuna toastie (sandwich), feeling like I needed something other than the fat cakes (kind of like fried dough, without the sugar) and an apple, that my family gave me for lunch. (Side note: I could speak up to the family more about having different foods to eat, but they are really not required to provide me lunch. The Peace Corps gives me enough money to buy lunch everyday. So, I always try to something else at this cafe.)

This is our last week of training - and I feel like I've hardly written about any of it. There is soooo much to tell. And I'm so far behind. Either I don't have much Internet access, or my evenings are spent playing with the kids and then studying my language. So, I'm hoping that once I get up to my village, I will have lots and lots of time on my hands to catch up on everything. I specifically want to talk about the different topics we've been learning about - Namibia, it's history, economics, culture, and of course, healthcare.

So, seeing as how I'm so far behind, I will probably just take each topic as a separate post, and explain more in detail....

Also note: I will probably be revisiting each topic, as I learn more and more while living here...

Anyway, this morning's training started as usual - 2 hours of language, tea break, and then another 2-hour session, usually related to something in the Health field, specifically, on Namibia, and how we may be as to incorporate it in our projects.

Well, today, we discussed Maternal and Neonatal Health. There are so many layers to this issue, here in Namibia...(as in almost every issue we have learned about during training)...and although I'm supposed to be inspired to do something, and help, and maybe make a small difference in the life of a mother, a child, the clinic, or community, this overwhelming feeling of sadness has taken over me today. And yes, I can give myself some motivating speech, to "find my Harry", i.e. my motivation to continue in this path....but at the present moment, I'm just sad.

In Sub-Sahara Africa, 1 in 16 women (1 in 7, in some parts of Africa) are likely to due as a result of pregnancy or childbirth.

In 2000, 62 out of 1000 children between 0-5 years old died.
In 2006, the number increased to 69 for every 1000.

The neonatal mortality rate in 2006 was 29 for every 1000, and as high as 39 in northeastern Namibia.

Some common causes of death in infants & neonates are:
- maternal complications during pregnancy
- birth injuries
- prematurity
- infections
- congenital malformations

Maternal morbidity has been related to:
- pre-eclampsia (33%)
- hemorrhage (25%)
- obstructed labor (25%)

Many pregnancies are dangerous - too early, too close together, too many, or too late in the life of a mother. Girls are becoming pregnant earlier and earlier in their life (age 14 & 15). Not only is this not good for the future of the mother, and potentially, the child, but these girls' pelvic bones have not expanded and developed enough to be able to safely carry and deliver a child. This puts the young mothers' life AND unborn child at risk.

There is also a shortage of healthcare workers, especially in the villages. Slowly, more Namibians are becoming doctors, but as of now, many are from other countries, and are only under contract for a few years at a time. As for nurses, although there are nursing schools here in Namibia, they are expensive to attend. And for those who do attend and graduate, it is difficult to persuade them to work in the villages. The younger generation want cars, paved roads, electricity, Internet, etc. And as for healthcare in the villages, some clinics don't have electricity, or it may be turned off at times throughout the day. The clinic also relies on the Ministry to deliver supplies. So, the nurses may have to go a few days, or a week or so, at times, without certain bandages, gloves, medications, testing material, etc.

So, like I said earlier, there are many layers here to consider....and this post will be one of many on this topic...

*sigh*

(And now that I'm at my permanent site, I'm asking more and more questions, to get a better picture of the situation. My clinic is actually very nice - only 2 years old. We have electricity and running water. We do not have a computer or fax machine. And there is no post office in the village. It takes extra time for the mail to arrive, so, usually, if the clinic has to send out bloodwork, it is delivered to a lab in a nearby district hospital, and the results need to be hand delivered back to the clinic. And sometimes, the 1 car the district or clinic might have, may break down, and then may take a while to be fixed. The doctor comes only 1-2x/month, which leaves most of the work up to the 2 nurses. (Last week, on top of the many sick people who came to the clinic, there were 27 expecting mothers. They came for their first Antenatal Care visit. We have these every Tuesday, with Thursday being the follow-up day. I will be blogging more about these ANC days in a later post.) Our clinic provides care for 8000 people. It is a public clinic. Only private clinics have scheduled appointments. So here at a public one, people come early, and may have to wait all day to be seen. Also, many travel long distances to get here. Also, my clinic is supposed to be for those in the village, but we are next to the Angola border, and many Angolans come to our clinic. And when they say they are from our village, this can affect our statistics, which means when the Ministry of Health audits the clinic, to determine if more staff is required, if we can't show that we are serving those from Angola as well, then we may not get any more help.)

I don't even know where to begin to explain to you how I'm feeling. I have so many emotions running thru my head - sadness, anger, denial, confusion, etc. But things are slowly changing. The government has created the Ministry of Gender Equality & Child Welfare to ensure equitable socio-economic development of women and men and the wellbeing of children.
So progress is happening....

But along with this information I learned in class today, I've been reading "Half The Sky". If I haven't mentioned it already in this blog, I highly recommend this book - for everyone. (And wow, I feel pretty dumb for being so naive about the world's problems. So, here is where I'm going to change that - I want to educate myself on so so many topics that concern life and the world!!) And the combination of these 2 things, has me feeling more and more passionate about women's and children's health, protection, education, rights - you name it - any issue.

Ok, I'm going to be completely honest. I've never been the "women's rights"-type or had the "You go girl!" attitude. I guess I had never wanted to be put into this category, for fear of being grouped as a "feminist" or, as some would think of it - "male-bashing". I have never wanted to be thought of as someone who is like this. I mean, there may have been some men in my life who I haven't been too fond of, but no, I wouldn't say all men are bad - or as some would think a "feminist" would say - "women are better." So I never really became passionate about this issue of women's rights. And now that I am outside the U.S., I realize that American and "western" women have it pretty darn good. Sure, it took awhile for things to become equal between men and women, but now, I'd say, generally things are good. (Granted, no I have not done any research on this topic. But yes, I am a woman, and yes, I have lived in the U.S. for the last 38 years of my life.) But, seriously, if I got paid that extra $1/hour that many feel women are not getting, at the same level as man, is that truly going to make a difference when I retire and there is (potentially) no longer social security? No, probably not. (I apologize for my sarcasm.) And since I've been over here in Namibia, I can honestly say that this is NOT a fight I feel passionate to fight. No, western women have it pretty darn good. Read "Half The Sky".

Ok, I will get off my soapbox now... :)

So, as I was saying, I never felt passionate about women's rights until I came here to Namibia. And everything I'm learning is just sealing the deal for me. No, so far I have not witnessed, or even heard of, horrific things happening to women over here - such as sex trafficking and facial burns from acid being thrown on them. But there are some things women are facing here. For instance, passion killings seem to be a problem. A woman breaks up with a man, he leaves, she thinks he is ok with the breakup because he doesn't contact her, meanwhile, he is upset over this breakup, and ends up murdering her. And an example of inequality that we learned about in PST is when a woman's husband dies, his family gets the house, land, and can even, legally, take the kids, leaving the wife with nothing. So, many times, the deceased husband's brother will take the widow on as his own wife (along with his current wife) , as well as the kids. Now, you could say this is wrong, BUT, they have a different viewpoint. By the brother taking on this woman and children, this ensures they are taken care of, versus taking everything away from her. But still, the woman has little legal rights.

Also, I have heard that many men travel for work (due to jobs being available outside the villages and small towns) and end up having multiple partners. And many times, women accept this. Now, for this issue, and the last I spoke of, things are slowly changing. Namibia is a very new country. It's only 23 years old. And women are starting to get out of the house, hold jobs, and make an income. This makes them less reliant on men to support them and the family.

Still, I feel a fire burning inside of me - to help these women become more educated about their health and their child's health. Especially in the villages. Things are so different there. Think of colonial times - living off the land, very few transportation options (so you use your own two feet), lack of education (even though schools as available, some don't go, and parents don't enforce it), the only businesses are people's own little food stands, or cuca shops (these sell soda, maybe fruit, soap, and other small items) and shabeens (bars). And alcoholism is a major issue, here in Namibia.

But I shouldn't be sad. I should feel inspired. And as luck would have it, the same week we talked about Maternal Health, (since I'm now finally finishing this blog post), we also had to give small group presentations. These were 10-minute sessions on how to do something (to help teach us how to make a lesson plan, follow it, and then evaluate the lesson -which we will probably do at some point while at our permanent sites). Well, I am really starting to believe that things happen for a reason - a girl in my group, Sallay, gave a lesson on belly dancing. Ok, yay, I get to learn how to shake my hips! At least, initially, that's what I thought. Well, after learning how to "shimmy", along with a few other moves, Sallay explained that belly dancing started as a way to build a "sisterhood" among women, and empower them. As she explained more, she mentioned that this may be something we could do at our sites - teach local women how to belly dance. I realized, that the dancing was more than just shaking the hips. More than an art form. It is a way to bring women together and empower them. And in developing countries, this is such an important issue! Sallay said she would teach me, if I taught her some massage and reflexology. Heck yeah! I think I will tuck this away as a definite option for something to start in my village. If I can help inspire women to become more empowered, then yes, I'll do it! Whether its knitting, crafts, dance, song, poetry, yoga, education or anything else - then this will be part of my duties in the community.

Hmmmm....and all of this happened in one week...

And so begins the "Edumacation of Johanna" :) Bring it on...I'm ready to learn!

Well, I guess I should get back to work....

Until next time...stay well (kala po nawa) and hey, while you're at it, for the heck of it, learn how to "shimmy"!

(p.s. if anyone wants to send me fabric and fun sparkly, shiny, things so I can make a shimmy belt, I will not stop you! And if I can get enough of these items, I can make belts for the women in my village- when I start my classes!)

Love & Peace...

***If you want to read Namibia's 4-year development plan, including Health goals, you can view it online at http://npc.gov.na/ndp4 ***