Wednesday, October 18, 2006

pinch me... I'm dreaming.

So, life in Africa?

Can't be described.

So far Sam and I have conquered the first few tasks: getting running water (just got it as we left for this cafe), getting groceries (from the scary, intense market), and getting comfortable enough with our Swahili to venture out alone.

I cannot describe the millions of differences between here and Canada. For starters, everyone's laid back attitude is wonderful. The idea that if something isn't done today, there is always tomorrow. People take long breaks (in exchange for long work days) and also walk at their own rates.

Little tasks (running to the store) often takes you more than half an hour as you stop to talk to everyone and everyone around us is checking up on how we are doing.

Pendo, our amazing house keeper, is phenomenal. Although I cannot understand her, you can follow her by her actions and her warm welcoming smile. She calls us her 'second children' and will watch us when we are away from home.

That AND she helped us survive the market, a crazy adventure on its own. The market is unlike anything I have ever seen. People pulling at your arms, people yelling at you, people looking into your bags, trying to reach into your pockets (mainly the street kids), and finally people just trying to be friendly...it is crazy, but definately an experience.

More to come, but I have to work through my inbox of insanity at present :)

3 comments:

Paige said...

ROB! This is so exciting and I cannot believe you were head soph one second and going to Africa the next. (does this mean you can avoid writing your final report? dooooo it, ha hahahhaha)

I hope all is well, I keep checking you and your fiancee's (ha) joint blog cos your updates keep me happy while I am at work.

lovePAIGE

etc'd said...

i love you i love you i looooove you


i'm thinking of you SO much and i'm sad we didn't get to say good-byes before you left

i'm sure your time there will fly by and before we know it we'll be able to see each other

although i would prefer the time to fly by here and move slowly for you so that you can get the most out of tanzania as possible

much love, my good friend
take care of yourself

Anonymous said...

Pendo is the very best.

I'm so happy you are loving it, and that your paitient demeanor matches up well with the slow flow of life. don't forget to sunbathe on the roof!