Today is the last day before I leave for in-service training. This marks my 6th month in Ethiopia and my 3rd month in Dessie. It's odd how much I have changed in this small window of time. Maybe not outwardly. I'm still the same Jon in many aspects, but I do look at the world from a different pair of binoculars.
I've just started to get some things to do. When I get back from training, I will put most of my time into helping local street children start a copy center. We have already purchased the large portion of materials that we will need to start this business thanks to Nichole's funding. Also, to get some extra funds to help the business Nichole, Ken, and I have been putting in long hours this weekend to do a large print project. Another project that I will start when I am back is a class on Microsoft Office. Finally, I will be helping 4 universities come up with some interesting activities and ideas for festivals that are meant to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in young college-aged kids. One of my ideas is an injera-eating contest. We'll see if that can get implemented.
I just hired a seratenna through my friend Elly. Seratenna is the word in Amharic for maid. I wasn't planning on one, but she spoke great things about her and told me that she could only give her a little work during the week. So now Tuesdays and Thursdays I have someone that keeps my house spotless and clean. It's done a great deal for my free time and happiness (as I loathe cleaning). The best part about it is that I can help give someone a job that can put food on their table.
Besides that, my garden has been double dug and I have seedlings that are sprouting quite well. I have been cooking much less lately, partly due to another week where I didn't have water and the required hours it takes to prepare meals. I have been riding to and from work 2-3 times a week on a bicycle I bought here and I'm quite enjoying the ride despite the riveted bumpy road and the dust. I have also been getting better at the guitar. I've recently learned Gary Jules – Mad World, Elliott Smith – Miss Misery, and Iron and Wine – Such Great Heights. Next on the list are Bon Iver – Skinny Love, and Radiohead – Knives Out. Finally, I posted a ton more pictures for those of you that were demanding them. <3
Jon
You've turned into a writing machine since my last visit. Good stuff. Happy to read all is well.
Posted by: TJ | May 25, 2009 at 10:25 PM
It must be quite an adventure out there. Glad to see you are doing well. Take care mang.
Posted by: sherbs | May 26, 2009 at 12:37 PM
All your improvement projects sound like fun! Also, take some garden pictures if you get a chance...
Posted by: Garth Webb | May 29, 2009 at 04:59 PM
yay pictures!!! <3
Posted by: libby! | June 04, 2009 at 04:08 PM