I arrived yesterday in sort of an exhausted state. The ride back from the airport gave me a good glimpse of the people and the area. I did not know that in Malawi people drive on the opposite side of the rode. There was one volunteer here from the previous session that I got to talk to and the three coordinators. I struggled to stay up for dinner and to watch the disappointing performance of the US soccer game.
After sleeping for about 11 hours I feel much better today. I helped make some posters for camp and got a tour a small area around where we live. I went to the Area 3 market. Lilongwe is divided into about 50 Areas. These are sort of like neighborhoods. There we bought vegetables to make stir-fry for dinner. I also learned of a place called McDouds. This is the Malawian version of McDonald’s. Their slogan is “Your Gonna Love It.” Jaren (one of the coordinators) said that last year a few people went in and tried to explain the grammar mistake but whomever they talked to only said “you’re going to love the food!” The rest of the volunteers arrive in a few days so more exciting updates are to come.
Here is a picture of my home for the next 6 weeks!! Yes, I have a a mosquito net on my bed but I have yet to see a mosquito. The house is nice but it is definitely going to be reminiscent of college style dorm living. Each room of about 4 people shares a bathroom/shower and we have cabinets labeled where we store our food.
One last thing. I learned at the market that there is a tailor who makes skirts and things for the volunteers. He has in the past made boxers. Look out men. I think I have an idea for your souvenir.
Hope to hear from you all and I'd love some comments!!!
Hi Meggs!!
ReplyDeleteSO good to hear from you and that your trip went well. Jared call and said you got there OK, but it was good to see your Blog. Your house looks good--a pool? Neat that you will be with some little kids maybe this week. Sounds like you are settling in well and meeting some people What is the country side like? What is the food. Bev and Vinnie were here--we went on our long bike ride-27 miles today--beautiful day. I called Jared when I saw your blog and email--he was still fishing with Rick at 9:30--I talked to Anita, Mark and Pam left for home. I gave Jared the phone # and told Anita some of the stuff you said. She wanted to know about the Blog. Jared may call but he may drive back tonight. All is well--I miss you--Bev is going to call more.
Love MOM
Dad and Bax say "hi"
The place looks awesome and I'm so glad you got there safely. Did you have your choice of rooms since you got there before the others? Have fun and take LOTS of pictures!
ReplyDelete-Pearlmutter
So good to see that you arrived in one piece. Can't wait to hear more about it!
ReplyDeleteHey Meghan! Look, I'm "blogging"! Glad you made it over safely.
ReplyDeleteHave fun. (Aliyah says hi, Desmond says "Which ones Ms. Leonard?") :)
Pam
Where is today's Blog??? I'm waiting
ReplyDeleteHi Meg. I'm glad you got to Malawi safe and sound. Have fun and let us all know all about it. Don't step on any snakes.
ReplyDeleteLove, dad
Chesney wants to know when we are getting a pool like that. She is worn out from the weekend in the mountains...has slept all afternoon. your, or is it you're? :)...blog is cool.
ReplyDeleteLove, Jared