Training is going well. My Nepali is progressing, though it could be better. I'm taking my Mac with me to site so I can begin utilising the resources I have been given. My Ama has been letting me help her cook at times so that has been fun.There was a mouse running around during dinner. My bhais at first said it wasn't one, but had to admit that it was when it ran past me again. :-) Luckily I don't keep food in my room and it's up a level from the kitchen. However that also means I have to climb a ladder anytime I need something from my room, which isn't a big deal but can be a harrowing experience!
My days are typically pretty full with the exception of Saturday that is the only day Nepalis have off during the week. The roads to and from my site to get to the main road are either mud or rocks so I walk slowly, which in turn causes me to take about 45 minutes to get to the bazaar. Again, not a big deal since I enjoy walking, but when things end at 5 typically and you need to be home by 6 since it gets dark and there is a leopard possibly around - it doesn't leave time to get things you may need as there aren't many stores closer.
I have shampoo that actually cleans my hair now though so I'm good! That was not a hint that people should send me a package! :-) Dr. Bronners does NOT work as a shampoo for my hair.
I have learned how to make super flour and preserve vegetables. Composting, nursery building, and improved cookstoves are next. Along with more language as well! Dushain festival begins tomorrow that lasts for 10 days so I'll attempt to post what that experience is like next week.
Electricity goes out fairly often, but we have torches. I get up about 615 every day, have cheeya with my Ama, and go to class at 7. It's definitely a unique experience to be in a family that speaks in another language. I can catch some words here and there I've learned, but like I do - they speak fast so I can't quite get all of it. Luckily, my 2 bhais know some English and translate for me as well as help with my vocabulary!
The weather has been hot, rainy, semi cool due to a breeze, and sometimes so hot I've wanted to shave my head. It is cooling down though and no worries - I won't be doing anything to my hair with the exceptions of washing, brushing, and eventually getting it into a ponytail!
Site interviews happened for me a couple days ago. There were personality questions, project ideas, village vs urban, and close to a volunteer questions. While I shared my opinions, word on the street is Peace Corps already has a basic idea of where they want to place you based on your expertise and a community's needs. They've been doing this for awhile so I'm just going to go with the flow. :-)
Hope everyone is well! I'm well and loving this new stage of life. I'll continue to keep everyone posted as I can, but electricity can be pretty unreliable. Have a great day!