There is much to be done, and much to do when you are trying to learn a new language, a new set of cultural norms, a new way of living, plus a new pace to everyday life! Barbara and I are getting slightly more adventurous with our cooking, learning how to wash clothes by hand, getting better at our sewing skills (thanks mom for the great sewing kit!) and we have now purchased a 20L drum for hauling water! It still smells of gas, but this morning Barbara made 3 trips to the well. The very nice ladies at the well helped her as to how to put it on her back and she made it back safely. Our Iyo laughs every time we tell her that we want to learn how to haul water, like the other women. Our father seems to think that we should not be haluing water, its too heavy. The well isn’t too to far, but it’s a good walk.

I am starting to understand more and more Gabra, at least the regular questions (especially “are you married?”) and can come up with a somewhat appropriate response! But still leaps and bounds to go! Right now I am trying to get all of the names of our neighbours, and then trying to recognize them when I see them throughout Kalacha. It’s a bit of a task for me ‘cause I was never good at names to start with! This will be an ongoing task requiring much brain work!

Last Friday we had the neat opportunity of experiencing some traditional Gabbra and Rendili dances. There was a peace conference going on and once the sun set they started to have some fun. We were escorted by the youth from church, which was a great comfort because I still get lost in the dark, and joined the circles where the dancers were in the center. Since my description would never give it justice I will just say that it was amazing!

There is much to be learned about the concept that character is higher than productivity... I don't have much time to elaborate, but I am in the process of switching my way of thinking - learning to value 'being' over 'doing'. Charmyn