African Lady

I've acquired a new name with the GETS girls-African lady.

Why?

Because someday I should be an African..at least that's what they say. They say that I've done a good job engaging the culture and I'm willing to try new things. I think they are referring to the fact that I've had to basin bathe for the last 2 weeks, that I put up with things like rats (did I tell you I found a dead one in my purse last week?!), and that I attempt the language (though my words are limited and often mispronounced). I also "forget" to take/wear my boda helmet, I'll sleep without a net if I have a bed to myself and I eat mangos from the tree. (I can hear my mother gasping in horror right now-don't worry ma, I'm still being safe!)

They also said that I joke like an Ugandan. They tried to give me the name African queen, but I told them I wasn't fit for a queen because I say words like ekibunu (which I thought just meant "butt", but apparently has a stronger, more offensive meaning..oops) and I sometimes wear trousers.

I've loved getting to know these girls and laughing with them. We've laughed and laughed, to the point that the muzee in the compound have often asked if they were safe. They were.

The program ends soon and it will be sad to see them go, but I'm thankful for the time I've had with them so far.