Yes, I've procrastinated in building my blog because I'm lazy. That said, I will try my best to document the last 10 months I've lived in Vanuatu, but will work backwards chronologically because my brain is fried and it will hurt me too much to think of all that I've experienced since Sept 2009. It may not seem too logical but my brain swears it will be easier to write down my experiences backwards. Here we go....
This week is the 30th Anniversary celebration for Vanuatu's Independence. Basically, their 4th of July. The entire week is "fulap" (full up) of festivities throughout the capital of Port Vila. I just received the program of all the events and reading it was overwhelming. I want to do everything with the locals, but short of cloning myself there's no way I can participate in everything. So, last night my girlfriends and I began the week by riding to Courtney's site in Pango (about 10 min drive from Vila). We made some homemade sushi (courtesy of Laura and her friend from the States Melissa), partook in some red libations and later walked to Pango field to crash a dance party. We had a blast!
At first only the pikininis (kids) were dancing, but it only took a few minutes before all of us "white misses" busted out in our best moves. Hali (PCV/women Tanna) was a trip! In a matter of 15 minutes we were the center of attention and soon after the little girls warmed up to us and joined in on the fun along with a few sprinkles of Mamas.
I just want to say, with the exception of when I hang out with my BFF Michelle or my big sister Jocy, I've not laughed so hard in my life. This is what Peace Corps is all about. Coming out of your shell, letting loose and enjoying a moment of laughter and organic fun with some of the best people I've been blessed to meet. No drama, no self-consciousness...as Goddess Tomiko would say we let our inner child out of the closet. I found myself playing "London Bridge" and "Ring Around the Rosie" with little Ni-Van girls. It was indescribable. I'm getting over a cold and have pretty much lost my voice. Laughing out loud last night did not help my recovery, but I would risk my voice any day if it means my spirit is uplifted.
Next up, on Friday (July 30), we'll visit Parliament Park (the "White House" section of Vanuatu) to watch some custom dancing, picnic, & kaekae (eat) some island kaekae (food). WHOOHOOO!
This week is the 30th Anniversary celebration for Vanuatu's Independence. Basically, their 4th of July. The entire week is "fulap" (full up) of festivities throughout the capital of Port Vila. I just received the program of all the events and reading it was overwhelming. I want to do everything with the locals, but short of cloning myself there's no way I can participate in everything. So, last night my girlfriends and I began the week by riding to Courtney's site in Pango (about 10 min drive from Vila). We made some homemade sushi (courtesy of Laura and her friend from the States Melissa), partook in some red libations and later walked to Pango field to crash a dance party. We had a blast!
At first only the pikininis (kids) were dancing, but it only took a few minutes before all of us "white misses" busted out in our best moves. Hali (PCV/women Tanna) was a trip! In a matter of 15 minutes we were the center of attention and soon after the little girls warmed up to us and joined in on the fun along with a few sprinkles of Mamas.I just want to say, with the exception of when I hang out with my BFF Michelle or my big sister Jocy, I've not laughed so hard in my life. This is what Peace Corps is all about. Coming out of your shell, letting loose and enjoying a moment of laughter and organic fun with some of the best people I've been blessed to meet. No drama, no self-consciousness...as Goddess Tomiko would say we let our inner child out of the closet. I found myself playing "London Bridge" and "Ring Around the Rosie" with little Ni-Van girls. It was indescribable. I'm getting over a cold and have pretty much lost my voice. Laughing out loud last night did not help my recovery, but I would risk my voice any day if it means my spirit is uplifted.
Next up, on Friday (July 30), we'll visit Parliament Park (the "White House" section of Vanuatu) to watch some custom dancing, picnic, & kaekae (eat) some island kaekae (food). WHOOHOOO!
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