Today marks the 1 month mark. 1 month down, 26 to go. Wow, sounds like a long time huh? But as we all know, time inexplicably passes at an alarming rate. All PC volunteers have warned us how fast the experience ends. I am definitely taking advantage of enjoying each individual day.

Today I went to Catholic mass in the stone church overlooking the town. It contains not only a breathtaking view of mountains AND ocean, but has the most delicious breeze. The tiny church only has 1 bench around the perimeter of the chapel, and the 25 congregants packed the room. I was one of the three gringos that chose to attend, and the reverend introduced himself to us after the service. Turns out, he thought we were missionaries. Me, a missionary! He probably thought we were the worst ever, not crossing ourselves or accepting communion.

I also had the good fortune of receiving a free manicure and pedicure from my neighbor yesterday! Many girls my age hang out in my backyard, and they happened to have brought their polish over. They thought it would be fun to give me a makeover, and sure enough within minutes they were scrubbing my dirty feet and cutting my cuticles. Dominican girls know what they are doing. I got pink polish accented with black stripes and glitter on the stripes. It’s too bad this effort of beauty is going to waste; my tevas do not do justice to my toes!

This weekend we have a food security assignment. This is by far my favorite topic and I’m excited to learn where all the vegetables are (because they are not on my plate)!

I realized it is fall in New England. Boy, do I miss it. The crispness, the leaves, the apples. My favorite season. I wish there were seasons in the DR. So, all of you reading from the north (and by north I mean New England), enjoy some fresh apple cider and some pumpkin bread. Think of me!

Other Updates:
• Walked into my room this morning to see a tarantula crawling on my mosquito net. It was quickly killed. I will never sleep without a mosquito net.
• Baked banana bread in a new neighbor’s oven (many don’t have ovens or stoves, but use campfires—this was a big deal!). Absolutely delicious.
• Played scrabble in spanish. I got the X, Z, V, W, J, Q. Good god. Obviously, I lost.
• More about food: I eat a form of banana everyday. Whether it is friend plantain chunks, sautéed banana slices, mushed plaintain (“mangu”), boiled plantain or a straightup banana, it’s present at every meal.


Sidenote: I’ve noticed that my English skills are deteriorating fast. I’m unable to remember English words, and my phrasing is somewhat incomprehensible (especially when I am typing). So, thanks for reading anyway.