Sunday, October 17, 2010

Day 1 on the job

Havent journaled in a while as there has been a lot going on. But I won't dwell on the training as it's been a blur up to this moment. Training isnt worth mentioning, only the fact that it was short, stressful, rushed, and 90% went over my head to the point where i am still catching up. But all was necessary to prepair me for my first Day, number 1.
My first day on site, the real deal. Three years of working brought me here to this place where I set to make a difference. Sounds like a freak out but quite the opposite. I finally was able to relax in my own settings where i could make my own schedule. With my first day, I filled it with every day house chores. Being active and doing things in a new environment. I took a run in the morning after I procrastinated for an hour whether to run or not. I am glad I did, to see the landscape that is beautiful while shedding the Segou body fat I acquired while feasting like a king in town. I intended to be in shape while I am here, but not to kill myself over it. The run lasted almost an hour but I walked at times because i was tired. A boy, hearding goats and sheep gave me an ear of corn on the way back which was very generous. I returned home where i was pretty winded from the run. I greeted A LOT of people as well which is equally as exhausting as a 5k run. I showered (bucket bath) clothed, and went to do laundry by the water pump. The previous day I set out to visit every boutigi (shop) I could find and greet them. I intended on buying things while familiarizing myself with the boutigitigi's (store owners).
I went to the pump and sprawled my clothes out on the wash area for all to see, drawers and all. Only women here, no suprise, but i intended to change that, through example that men too can wash clothes. Will it work, we shall see. I washed my clothes with my hands, using a wash board only. Its hard work and time consuming. It took close to 3 hours to wash and rinse everything as i got a little sun in the process while enjoying the outside. I also realized that i shouldnt wait until all of my clothes are dirty to wash them for the sake of time and energy.
After laundry, i cleaned my bike as it needed it, badly. Mud from 3 weeks ago had resided on the chain, gears, and frame, hindering performance as i rode. Also the chain started to rust, not good. I scrubbed all the gears and the chain, trying to remove as much as possible. I tweaked with the derailers to hone my stallion for the ride into my market town the next day.
After chores i began to read Slaughter House Five by Kurt Vonnegut. I haven't read any of his books but figured what better time than now. I managed to down over 100pgs and enjoyed the read. I have 6 books lined up to read after Slaughterhouse five is finished.
So concludes the first day. I ate corn to (local dish) with sauce and went to sleep, always in peace.