On this day last year, I was welcomed to one of the best experiences of my life. I have spent a lot of time since then appreciating the things I have as well as the things I left behind - family, friends, diet coke, sushi, etc. I have certainly gained more than I could ever have imagined in the past twelve months. I remember talking to the PCVs who were finishing up their service last July, and they were telling us that the time FLIES. I just thought that was one of those things people say...when you have two years ahead of you, it definitely does not seem like it will be a fast journey. But it has already been faster than I could have ever thought. It truly baffles me that we have been here for one year, and we have only one more to go!
I have been considering extending my service to do a third year, but I have not decided about that yet. One thing is for sure - I am not getting any younger! It's probably about time to start a career when I get home, but I have never exactly been on the traditional road of life. Maybe I took the road less traveled - who knows? The only thing I know at this moment is that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. There is no other way it would all feel so perfectly right. Of course there are hard days when you miss your family and friends so much it hurts, OR you would consider homicide for a roll of sushi or a real pizza...but that comes with the territory.
I am thrilled to be fortunate enough to get a trip home this July to visit all my dearly beloved ones!! :) AND I get to officiate the wedding of two of my great friends when I am home. The three of us have a common bond of nomadic nature, so I think it is a great way to celebrate their life together!
With the national elections that were held on May 26th, there was definite concern that the defeated candidate/party might fight the outcome...but things are looking good so far! It is awfully hard to imagine having to leave this place I call home (for now) without finishing the work I was sent to do. I sincerely hope (for many reasons...not just the selfish ones) that the outcome is peaceful.
Speaking of the work I was sent to do, I am teaching Business to first year students at a technical college, Thaba-Tseka Technical Institute, and I LOVE it! I just finished up my first year of classes, and now I have a lot of downtime until August when we will resume classes. The students are brilliant, and I am so fortunate to have amazing co-workers by my side. The Aerobics class that I had kind of fell through due to lack of stereo equipment, but I am hoping to get that going again in August because the students really loved it...and it's a fun form of exercise.
To everyone who has emailed, written letters, sent packages, or called, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart! It means more than I would ever have guessed to know that you are thinking of me and taking time from your busy lives to let me know that you are.
I hope to post some pictures this week of my house, town, and friends here in Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho!
"Be well, do good work, and keep in touch." -Garrison Keillor
