For any of you that have seen the movie Eurotrip, or Hostel, or any other movie which attempts to stereotype Eastern Europe, they are dead on. I live in Soviet-era block housing, where every single apartment, floor and building are the exact same, everywhere in the country. Makes it very convient when walking up unlit stairs at night, because I only have to count the same 12 steps every floor. We have water every 3 days. When the water does, come, we get very excited and my host Mom usually runs up to me and says “The water is coming”, much like a small child when the ice cream truck drives by. At this point, we let the water run and fill our bathtubs until it shuts off again. Finally, we finish the celebration with a bucket bath, and I lay down to sleep amidst the light of the burning trashcan four stories below.
This is all true, but I love it and I am so happy. One thing that the movies don’t show is that people don’t really need hot showers, running water and trash pickup to be happy. I am incredibly content right now – I have a wonderful new family, great (and enthusiastic) friends in Noyemberian, great food, and a lifestyle that’s not stressful, but still busy and fulfilling. I think it would be refreshing for everyone to walk through town with a muddy pig by your side – it truly helps you understand the important parts of life.
My new surroundings also helped inspire my first sustainable development project, for my apartment. Thank goodness Duct Tape lasts forever. This is my small taste of home, for all you St. Louisians out there:
The first day of school was also this past week, on September 1st. They have a big ceremony, called “first bell”, where the new students (the equivalent of 1st grade) present flowers and recite poems for the school director. There are two schools in Noyemberian, and students can choose which one they want to attend. As you look at the photos, please note I’m incredibly jealous of these kids clothes – makes me want to spend even more money on tailored suits here in Armenia.
And finally, as promised, here are some pictures of my host Mom (Gohar), my new suit and friend Cheryl at swearing in, and my birthday party, respectively. Enjoy!
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3 Responses:
September 5th, 2006 at 9:08 pm
Kyle,
I’m Sarah’s Mom….she is one of the A-14’s in Surenavan (actually the only one in her village). I have enjoyed your website so much. Sarah does not have access to the internet at this time so I feel like I can see what she might be experiencing in your pictures. Please know I think about all of you and admire what you are doing. I know Sarah’s biggest fear is the Winter and trying to stay warm….we can only hope her coat will arrive before the first snow. Mail seems to be extremely slow. I do like the Cardinals on the toilet seat since those are the state bird here in Ohio.
Thanks for the wonderful updates. Happy belated birthday. Mine was this past weekend and Sarah tells me that they toasted me…those Armenians do know how to party!
Kathy Zaenger
September 6th, 2006 at 8:06 am
Kyle,
Nice suit… If I send you my size… would you be able to pick some up for me? I’m serious about this as I am sure they are pretty cheap there. Whenever I get off my lazy ass, I plan on sending you out a care package.
Al
September 14th, 2006 at 7:12 pm
We found you! Thanks for the great clues. Our class is looking forward to being a part of the worldwise school program with you. We enjoyed reading some of your recent entries and can’t wait to get to know you. The kids say, “Nice suit!” and they enjoyed seeing the pictures of your TALL family.