Frequently Asked Questions: PT 2

How do you like it?

So far, it's a lot of culture shock, integration and lessening. You know that mundane training that everyone has to go through when you get a new job? Yup, the only difference is add in a little culture shock. Supposedly they make PST a little mundane to get you amped for site? You get this picture in your head of what peace corps will be like after dreaming of it for so many years. Even after being told to have no expectations, it's hard. It's everything I ever dreamed of and so vastly different all at the same time.

Do you enjoy your little piece of paradise?

I'm not sure bucket baths, sweltering heat, cockroaches, rats, and stinky lamb sausages = paradise. Don't get me wrong, Fiji is beautiful, but I'm not living on a resort for the next two years. The black sandy beaches (SURPRISE!) are beautiful and there are palm trees everywhere. But, these island countries have people who have lives, an infrastructure, jobs, businesses and transportation; they are so much more than the resorts. It is beautiful, but not in the way you would expect.

Are they feeding you? How's the food?

I have plenty of food. It's not vastly different from the states, except that everything is cooked in coconut milk (I've only tried one dish with coconut that I liked). Lots of snails, fish, oysters, and mussels. Lots of meat with bones in and tons of fresh fruits. Vegetables aren't as common, but I get them when I ask. There are quite a few starchy, potato-like plants that are decent and tons of refined grains.

Do you get to swim?

I've only been swimming once... I am here to work. Haha.

What's the time difference? 

I am 17 hours ahead of CST.

Can we plan a time to talk?

Right now during PST, I am not in charge of my schedule or life, so I have to decline. It also gets overwhelming to try and explain the exact same thing to everyone, over and over; not your fault! That's just why I have the blog! When my schedule gets more stable after swearing in, in November, I'll be able to talk more. Thanks for being patient!

Are you better? 

Yes? Maybe? Apparently being sick is part of training.

What's your village and host family like? 

I have 2 parents, who have 5 children, although one is out of the house and has a daughter. They range from 17 to 3 years old. There's also a sister in law, with her daughter and 2 6 month old grandchildren. There's another aunt and son...that's just during the week! On the weekend the family comes in from the city and there are more children/adults! There's always something to do! My village has sbout 15 houses and is on a black sand beach. We have a community hall and chief.