Blog, June 30, 2016

Hello and Good-By to my Faithful Readers:

Peace Corps Service: Completed 27 Months

I am thinking about Frank Sinatra singing “and now the end is near”….as today is my last day in the Peace Corps. I am and have been experiencing such mixed feelings about leaving as Peace Corps has been such a staple in my life for the past 27 months.

The last day was spent talking with other volunteers who were leaving today also having lunch at Ronnie’s Pizza and trying to beat the heat. The real feel temperature today as 106F; and the temperature was actually 95F. It was awful. I’ve not spent this much time in Tbilisi. As you know, I usually come in for a shower and food on a weekly basis; but, with moving into my apartment I’ve been here a little more than once a week. The forecast said that it should cool down soon; maybe in to the 80’s – so, that would be welcome.

The FINAL act as a Volunteer was to ring the bell. The bell ringing is a tradition that will official mark the “close of service.” Some countries require PCV’s to make a little speech before they ring the bell: however, here in Georgia it was not that organized and formal. When my friend Sara and I rang the bell the cord that moved the striker fell off – that was funny. When you ring the bell the staff finds their way down to the first floor to watch the festivities. We did take lots of pictures and I will post a couple here in the blog; to say the least it was a moment.

When I said good-by to the security staff I actually started to cry. I just got so filled up that I would not be walking back through the Peace Corps Doors and signing in ever again. The security staff was available to all of us 24/7; so, no matter when I was at the office I had a sense of safety. It was a moment for me.

I will also miss the Peace Corps Volunteer lounge and the FREE BOX.  The Lounge was an oasis for me. I could sit on comfortable chairs; get my weekly shower and buy food and have a feast without the host family watching what I was doing. The FREE BOX was such a source of “goodies” and they were free. The PCV’s would leave everything from food to clothing to Christmas trees in the free box so that anyone could take and use. Most of my clothing came from the free box and then some. It was like going to a FREE flea market every week. It will be missed.

Since this is my final blog as a Peace Corps Volunteer; I need to close this blog as, of course, I am no longer a PCV. I will let you know what I will name my new blog so that you can continue to follow me if you would like. Stay tuned J

I had a birthday this week also, on June 29^th. It is my third birthday in Georgia (aka Captivity- HA). Friends and I celebrated at an “all you can eat” sushi restaurant. It was such a treat as sushi here in Georgia is very expensive; however, this promotion made it very manageable financially. Some friends and I ate and drank for two hours and talked our heads off. It was a wonderful evening.

Now, as a full time resident - A couple of things that I’ve learned about Tbilisi – things I really didn’t know before as usually I was only here in Tbilisi for one day at a time. However, since I’ve been here more often since I now have an apartment

I’ve learned:

1.     Tbilisi is really a very dirty city. I have known that previously; however, what makes it different is the living day to day in this environment. The furniture in my apartment when I run a rag over it to clean, the rag is just black as coal. Some friends tell me that what comes out of their noses is usually black soot.  That has not been my problem; however:

My experience has been my eye. I feel like something is in it; and when I try to get it out (sort of like sleepers – if you know what I mean) – I end up making it worse. So, now I just use compresses to dab what is seeping out of my eye. I did see the doctor and she gave me eye drops - which does help; but again, because of the pollution this may be a problem for me. The emission from the cars is not clean and because we are surrounded by mountains the air quality is poor. When you get up high you can see the smog hanging on the city….so, we shall see how all this goes.

The marsh and buses don’t have air conditioning; so, as we sit in traffic (and there is a lot of traffic) we end up smelling the fumes and exhaust of whatever is next to us on the streets that sometimes is 3 or 4 cars. All the windows have to be open in the marsh or bus; otherwise, we will all die L

2.     The metro closes down at midnight. I mean at exactly midnight they close the gates to the entrance to the metro….so, you are at the mercy of the taxi drivers. This is something that I need to keep in mind.

3.     The trees in Tbilisi are TALL. I never noticed before how tall the trees were. These trees were not planted recently; I don’t know how old they are – but I am sure they have been around for some time. Most are beautiful; however, others need the tree doctors.

4.     I’ve had a little time to explore and I am happy with what I’ve found so far. There are so many little nooks and crannies here in the city. Street after street of alleyways and side streets off of side streets. It reminds me of old Europe at time. Most homes look like they are the original and the sidewalks all need to be replaced. They are made with brick that has broken up; so, once again I feel like I am walking in a field of explosive materials. I can never look up when I walk. If I want to see something I need to stop; as otherwise I am really afraid of tripping.

The city also reminds me of San Francisco at times. There are so many hills that require much strength to go up and handrails on some streets to hold onto going down – it is so steep.

5.     Some streets are so narrow that (2) cars cannot pass side by side. One car has to stop and pull over to the sidewalk so that the other car can pass. And, wow, when there is a truck trying to get by – I hold my breath. It is not an easy city for driving or walking….but then, I really did know that.

6.     There are also so many PARKS here in the City. I’ve been to two parks that are just lovely. I will post links in upcoming blogs; but the Vake Park, very near my house is so made for children. The parks are clean and the foliage is just beautiful. There are no sick trees in the park. The fountain is LARGE; giving the area a comforting feeling. There are many buildings surrounding the park which at times make me feel like I am in Central Park in NYC.

Ok, as you can see I feel like I am living in many different cities; San Francisco, New York City (Soho, Central Park) and cities of old Europe. I have just touched the tip of discovering the city. My neighbor is such of wealth for my senses. I still ride the marsh and metro buses to find out how I can get around without taking taxies….I am very excited.

Last my not least is my apartment “Bina” – which is apartment in Georgian. I’ve washed clothes which takes two hours no matter what cycle you put in on.  The clothes are really clean, but two hours is just too much.  I could write a blog about every room in my place; and I will soon…but, at the moment I just want to complete what I’ve been doing for the past 27 months. One minor issue is that there are so many air conditions above my apartment and the water drips down; which is not a problem. BUT, the problem is the water hits a tin roof which is a little ways below me. The “ping, ping” of the water hitting the tin is a little annoying. I’ve asked my landlord if he could place some material on the tin to buffer the noise and he said he would…so, we shall see.

So often here in Georgia, it is a thing where “we shall see” as a lot of the time it is a crap shoot and to what can be done or accomplished. I hope for the best and if not, well – In the scope of things it is not horrible. It is just a little annoying. J

My former Country Director is having a cocktail party tonight.  It is already July 3^rd -  for all of us former Peace Corps Volunteers. Now that we are not in his charge any longer we can socialize; so, this will be fun.

I have been interviewing for positions here in Tbilisi. At the moment they are mostly teaching jobs; really, not what I want – but may need to do until I can get into what I really want to do. I will be part of a summer camp in Bakuriani for ten days (may end up to be 20 days) depending on enrollment. This city is in the central part of Georgia. In addition to being paid, I will be housed and feed for the entire time….so, I don’t have to spend any money while making money - yipee

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakuriani

It is really good money and I hope an excellent experience. I will teach for (3) hours a day and the team will meet on July 4^th to lay out the plans.

Here is something that I hope will give you a smile….I applied to McDonalds here in Tbilisi to work. What a hoot…..basically, they could not believe I was asking for myself; and the Manager said that I was too old! Yipes, call the lawyers…(smiles). If they were smart they would hire me and it would open up a new venue for all the older folks in the city and take Tbilisi McDonalds to an entirely new atmosphere for the older generation here. I will keep you informed as things progress…honestly, I want the experience as I seriously cannot go back and work in an office. I think it would be a HOOT!

Happy 4^th of July.

Celebrating in a foreign country is so strange as there is NOTHING really happening – but, that is just one of considerations for being an Ex-Pat…..

I am signing off and feel my stomach kind of queezy and somewhat overwhelmed that this is coming to an end. It has been a wonderful experience writing this blog and I am so appreciative of all the fine folks out there who have been following me. I will post my new blog address as my last and final blog for my Peace Corps Adventure and hope that you would still like to continue to follow me as I am now an Expatriate (which has been another dream and I’ve lived long enough to make it happen).

Catherine Lawrence, G14

Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia

The contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.

 "Marsh" limo! Transport from Sagarejo to Tbilisi
 "Marsh" hub at Sangori Metro: Transport to Sagarejo

 Moving out of Host Family House! My Crap  - As PCV's call our stuff!

 Birthday at my "Bina" - my 3rd in captivity!

"The Last Bell" - Tradition in Peace Corps....June 30, 2016 " - Good-by

 BBQ - at the Ambassador's Home . A final good-by! And REAL FOOD :-)

 My long walk (on the right) in-between the hole for the pipe and the crater for mountain water runoff!

 Filling in the hole - outside my house. 

 Mom and Chicks...to small for the chicken house, so in the shed off the kitchen.

The garden that I will miss greatly....still not 100% after the storm. 

Hello, My Faithful Readers

June 13, 2016

26 Months Served – ALMOST Completed Service!

I usually write one blog a month; however, since this is my FINAL month here in Sagarejo and In-Service as a Peace Corps Volunteer; I needed to blog twice. The FINAL Peace Corps Adventure blog  post will come at the end of the month.

So, here we are my friends at the end of an adventure that was worth its weight in gold. At the end of this blog I will be 17 days away from being a former Peace Corps Volunteer. That is both a happy and sad thought; but, I knew it was coming. In fact a lot of the time I prayed that the end of service would come a lot sooner than it did. But, even with all my complaining; I would not have traded this experience for anything.

As I begin my life as an “Ex-Pat” in Tbilisi; I would like to do another blog. I don’t know what I will call it – but I will let you know how to access it. For now, I write about some closing thoughts of my service here in the village/town of  Sagarejo.

Some final stories from day-to-day living here in Georgia:

Many houses here in Georgia, both here in the village as well as the capital city, have ants. I didn’t realize just how many people had ants; but, probably I was not listening or didn’t understand. However, the Georgian’s think that ants are a good thing. There is this saying that goes “Ants bring the Money” – so, having ants in your home is a really good thing. Well, I don’t agree – but then I guess it is a good way to justify having ants.

It has been raining A LOT and as a result the MUD has been horrible. One of the reasons was the result of having the road dug up to lay the new water pipes. The overturned dirt was so fresh that it resulted in mud when the new dirt mixed with water. When I walk to school I just sink into the mud. I try and walk on the side of the road; but, sometimes that is not possible. Another fear is falling; as the mud is so slippery. Hopefully this will be behind me when I move to Tbilisi!

A “first” happened the other day going to school. It was raining and I was walking down the mountain to go to school. I noticed a car (with a taxi) sign on the roof coming out of one of the driveways. The taxi stopped and then backed up heading toward me. Well, I sure didn’t want to pay for a taxi going down the mountain; so, I didn’t think too much of it. However, the driver (one of the drivers that I use to go up the mountain) waved me in and said “no money.”  I was shocked. That had never happened to me; so, I got in and away we went down the mountain and to school. It was a wonderful treat not to have to walk the walk; but also, to be fairly dry when I reached the school…..Thank you!

A story from a day in the life:

Recently a woman, an old woman, came into the teacher’s room at school. She was so little and frail I was wondering why she was there. It became clear after a moment that this woman had issues; in that, she thought she had arrived to go to school (herself) but was not sure where to go. One of the teachers spoke to her as she thought she was looking for her granddaughter; however, it became clear the woman was confused.  I didn’t understand all the conversation in Georgian; but, I knew enough to know that the teachers were concerned about her mental state.

One of the teachers took the woman to the Office of the Director; and once the door was closed the remaining teachers started to laugh. I was confused as I wondered what was so funny. The laughing continued with talk about this poor old woman who was thinking she was here to go to school…and I was ashamed at what I was seeing. After two years living here, I still don’t understand.

School is coming to a close on June 10^th. What a wonderful day that will be knowing that I never have to be in a classroom again. As the time draws closer; there are fewer and fewer students that come to school. All the text books have been collected; so, the students have nothing to work with. However, throughout the year, even though they have text books, many students don’t bring them to school or open them. As the days draw to a close; the teachers play word games with the students and/or run a video. Many classes go on trips and all throughout the day the teachers, parents and students are taking pictures.

Another story from a day in the life:

A community member had a situation with their teeth. The front teeth were so rotten that after eating bread two of the teeth broke off and the root was left in the mouth. The person was so upset. The person was looking at the broken teeth in hand and crying…trying to figure out what had happened. I was so sad to see this and thought that a dental appointment would be scheduled. It has been almost a month and the teeth are still rooted in the mouth. No dentist was seen…

…..but, what made me even sadder was the behavior of the person who witnessed this event. As they were watching the person and giving support and saying how sorry they were; once done and their back was turned away they started to laugh and giggle. They laughed and mimicked the person holding the broken teeth in their hands and wiped the invisible tears from their face – all the time laughing.  What can I say – I just have no words.

Dental care is not wide spread here in my village. Although some children do have braces and have dental work -  so many do not have care. Money is always the issue and it just seems that the dentist is an expense that many people cannot afford.

I will post a picture, but on June 4^th the G-14’s (of which I am a member) was invited to the home of the United States Georgian Ambassador and his wife for a BBQ. It was a real treat. There was lots of GREAT food; a swimming pool; comfortable chairs and BEER. It was a four hour party; and truly no one wanted to leave. The Ambassador spoke wonderful words about our service here in-country and of course, pictures were taken. It was a great way to have the entire group of G-14’s together one more time before we all leave for various parts of the world.

One more story from a day in the life:

The road to my house was being torn up in order to lay new sewer pipe in the ground. I had no idea this was going to happen and came upon this situation as I returned from school recently. As I looked at this situation the workmen just looked at me and no one made a move to help me figure out how to get to home. I finally decided I would have to walk along the edge of the hole they dug for the pipe. It was going to be dangerous; as on one side was the 4 foot hole for the pipe and on the other was a crater for the excess water to run off the mountain (about a four foot drop into dirty water).

As I started to walk the long and narrow edge I almost fell. I took the workman’s hand (who was standing in the hole for the pipe) and started walking. He was not really happy about this; but, too bad.  I was pushing against weeds and dirt with every step. As I was very close to home; the workman went back to the team. At that point, I did fall. I was very lucky that I landed on the piece of dirt I was walking on and not in the pipe hole or crater. To his credit; the workman came back to help me up and support me to get home.

As I walked into the house; I saw my host family in the kitchen. How could they have gotten home?  They asked me if I had walked up the road and when I said yes they started to laugh. My face told them I didn’t think any of it was funny. It seems that there is a back way in which no one told me about – but, really they didn’t leave the house because of the construction. They asked why I walked up the road – and I said “are you kidding me”. “Why didn’t you tell me”?  They just laughed…..

I find so often that Georgians have a strange sense of humor when it comes to the misfortunes of others. I don’t understand it; as it almost has an adolescent quality about it. I was very angry with my host family. But, then I think maybe because life here is so hard; that the only way to combat misfortune is to laugh at it.

One thing I won’t miss here is the television. In my new apartment I had the landlord take the television out of the apartment. I don’t see any value to having it. In any event, my host grandmother turns the volume up so loud and the reason being is that 1) – she is hard of hearing and in addition – 2) she wants to hear the soap operas when she is in the kitchen washing dishes or out in the garden working on the flowers. The television is blasting.

I come down to the living room and turn it down and it stays low for a little bit; but then, the volume goes back up again. I do hope my new neighbors have a low tolerance for noise? This is what I was told by my landlord; but, we shall see.

http://www.hardrock.com/cafes/tbilisi/

The Hard Rock Café is coming to Tbilisi! Opening is slated for December, 2016! It has been said that a “city” is on the map when it has a Hard Rock Café – so, I guess that says it all for Tbilisi. We have arrived!!!!

My final day in school was bitter/sweet. There were very few students in class; so, DVD’s were played while the teachers collected books and made final notes in their role books. Even though my service ended in the school on June 10^th; the teachers need to go to school every day until June 30^th so that they will be paid for the month. Regardless of whether there are any classes; the teachers need to be in school.

My last day consisted of lots of hugs and my counter-part teachers took me to lunch at a restaurant across the street from the school (which I had no idea it even existed). This restaurant served Kinkali and surprisingly it was delicious. They were homemade and cooked in water that didn’t taste like dish water. We had beer and I ate (6) of those Kinkali. After lunch, more hugs and promises to stay in touch. The school gave me (2) bottles of Georgian Wine….it was very sweet of them and I know I will enjoy it.

I know it will take a little time to recover from the school experience (and that is OK).

I have decided not to participate in the Summer Program in Turkey (July, 2016). The reason being is that the camp is very close to the Syrian Border and with the unrest happening in that area; I didn’t want to put myself in harms way. I am very disappointed about that as I have looked forward to this all year; but, the hopefully the new year things will be calmer and then I can go.

The second half of my June blog will consist of leaving Sagarejo; moving into my apartment and leaving service with the Peace Corps. There are traditions (ringing the last bell) leaving the Peace Corps Office and completing all the requirements necessary for COS (Close of Service).  In addition, I have a job interview here in Tbilisi. It is with an organization that prepares students for SAT, GRE, etc., type testing. Also career counseling….so we shall see about this and other ideas I have of creating a life for myself  in Georgia!

I told you there was a lot to talk about and that one blog was not going to cut it J I will see you all at the end of June!

Best, Catherine Lawrence, G14

Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia- 6/13/16

The contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.

 Me at the Batumi Career Fair Event representing Penn!

 Here I am again, representing Penn at Batumi State University

 Tree knocked down by storm in May, 2016 (Sagarejo Garden)

 Ice and snow on ground in May, 2016 (Sagarejo Garden)

 So, you think you had a bad day! in Tbilisi, Georgia

McShawarma - they cannot make them fast enough...love this stuff!

Hello, My Faithful Readers

May 26, 2016

25 Months Served/01 Month Remaining

Well folks, I am packing. I mean I am really packing as I will be living in Tbilisi as of June 30^th. ! I hope by the time I post this blog I will be able to give you the skinny on my new apartment/flat. I’ve been touring apartments and for one reason or another e.g., too big/too small;  too much money; too far away from the city; I could go on….but I am standing that I will find the best I can do and move in on June 15^th. In this way I will have a couple of weeks to relocate before I leave service on June 30^th, 2016!

Success! I did it….I have rented an apartment (or Flat) here in Tbilisi. The e-link does not work so I can’t send photographs – so, I will gush about it here instead. It is a (1) bedroom flat and seriously, it is too big for me. I am used to living in small spaces (I have a studio apartment in USA) and I have not had a bedroom for 18 years. However, with all that said – it is a lovely apartment.

The location is in the Vere/Vake section of the city. This is a very residential area and I just love it. It is kind of the Rittenhouse Square (specific to Philadelphia) area of Tbilisi. There are lots of shops, outdoor fruit and vegetable stands. It has a neighborhood feel to it, like SoHo in New York City.

It is on the 2^nd floor so I won’t have to deal with the elevators. Phewwww.. that is a relief as elevators here in Georgia leave something to be desired. The staircase to the 2^nd floor is in open view (and I like that). Of course, I will have my own bathroom (OMG); a living room, a sun room; kitchen and bedroom. The flat is in the back of the building so I’m told it will be very quiet. It does face other apartment buildings in the back – not a great view but the trees block some of the view. The windows have screens (which is unheard of here in Georgia). Also, heavy duty drapes on the windows (another usual feature) as most houses have very thin curtains on the windows.

I will have a puzzle table and a WASHER….I am so excited to have both. I am a jigsaw puzzle addict and I’ve been without my puzzle fix now while here in Georgia. My family let me use their puzzle table; but when they had an event I had to dis-assemble it – so, I often didn’t even start it. L

In Georgia when you rent it comes furnished with everything; dishes, silverware, glasses, pots/pans; sheets; blankets; towels….I could go on. I won’t need to buy anything (which is exactly what I had in mind). Another feature is Air Conditioning….can  you believe it? I don’t know if I will use it as it is expensive to use; but, it will be there in the event that I need it.

I take possession on June 15^th. Not sure how I am going to manage moving my stuff from Sagarejo to Tbilisi; but if there is only one thing that Peace Corps has taught me is that I will figure it out. The next time I write; which will be the FINAL blog for my Peace Corps Adventure (at the end of June) I will have some pictures to post.

Here in Georgia, and especially where I live in Sagarejo, there are so many birds. The sounds are so beautiful and abundant – I just love sitting and listening. I always think back, years ago, when the book  “Silent Spring” was written. When I hear the birds here I am sure that the prediction of a “Silent Spring” is not going to happen, at least here and at this time. I am glad.

During the 1^st grade class recently the classroom teacher (my counter-part) wrote notes on the blackboard and told the students to write the information in their notebook. However, one little girl came up to the board and took pictures of the backboard with her phone. I am still laughing thinking about that. I do remember in college that students took pictures of the blackboard notes; but here we are at the 1^st grade level. It is the future.

My Timex Watch strap broke; what a bummer. However, I actually found a Timex distributor here in Georgia and I actually knew where the store was. Progress! They didn’t have any watch straps in stock; but, will order one so that I can once again wear my watch. I would have bet money that I was going to have to wait until I got back to the States to have it fixed; so, I am really happy.  However, it has not been a happy ending. The store promised me assistance; but didn’t come through. It seems that even if they had the new strap they didn’t have anyone to install it. A friend is going back to the States in June and will see about having it fixed.

I was recently informed that my school (Sagarejo School #2) won’t be getting a Peace Corps Volunteer after I leave. I and my counter-part teachers were disappointed; but I was not surprised. There is so much need here in Georgia and not as many PCV’s to fill that need. They usually skip a year, so I am hoping that my school will apply and be assigned another volunteer for the school year 2017.

I recently went on a trip out west to Batumi, which is on the Black Sea. This was a trip organized by a group called “EducationUSA” which helps students, for a fee, get into US College. This was a Career Fair and I along with many PCV’s represented our US colleges (of course, mine is the University of Pennsylvania). It was a great event. Yale University was the major sponsor of this event; as in addition to the Career Fair; Yale conducted three breakout sessions to speak to the students on what is expected to get into US College.

It was held at Batumi State University in the very heart of Batumi. The school is very nice; not modern; but comfortable. I wish I would have taken pictures; but, sorry I didn’t. It was a long day as we left Tbilisi at 8am and drove cross country for six hours to reach Batumi. For the next four hours we were part of the Career Fair. Prior to the six hour drive back to Tbilisi; we went to dinner and then started the drive back. We didn’t get back to Tbilisi until around 1:00am. It was a long day and very productive and satisfying.  It was also great to see the Black Sea and also enjoy the smells on being near the water.

This is something that I won’t do again – that is, overall spending twelve hours on a “marsh” traveling out west. Days later my back still hurt as the “marsh” seats are not all that comfortable. But, I have been trying to savor any and all Peace Corps events that I didn’t have a chance to do. If I go out West again, which I am sure I will do, it will be via the train.

Some friends and I spent a leisurely Sunday morning at the Rooms Hotel in Tbilisi having their “all you can eat” breakfast. The food and the company was excellent. First the food (of course) – bacon (and lots of it); cheese (my favorite – Blue Cheese); omlets and pancakes and all kinds of baked goods; salads – I could go on and on. Needless to say, we all enjoyed ourselves. We ate for four hours (of course not non-stop) – we did talk in-between, but it was awesome. It was a little expensive but well worth it.

And yet, another food event “All you can eat Sushi” at the Radisson Blu Hotel was a fabulous night. My friend Marianna and I ate sushi for 2-hours. Of course the beer was so expensive. The cheapest was 11 Gel and went up to 16 Gel a bottle; so, my bill the beer was more expensive than the sushi J. However, it was so wonderful. I could not eat the next day I was still so filled. They had a chef making up the sushi platters fresh and when your platter was empty; immediately another platter appeared. We were both in heaven…..this will be done again and again. I hope they continue this “all you can eat” promotion; as sushi was very expensive here in Georgia as it is not readily available or abundant. I seriously could not have afforded the sushi that I ate J.

Here are some interesting facts that I found reading the financial papers here in Georgia. To begin, 60% of all food that Georgia consumes is imported. I think that is a high number; but then, I don’t know what else to compare it to.  In addition, and this is something that has been very clear to me – that is, bread is one of the main source of calories in the Georgian diet. Bread accounts for as much as 63% of the individual’s caloric intake. It is, so the report states, about twice as much as the benchmark value in developed countries. Again, what a high number; however, it does not surprise me in the least.

Another fact that does not surprise me is that the Georgian people experience a deficit in essential nutrients. They lack access to vitamin-rich fruits, as well as meat and fish containing protein, iron and vitamin. The diet is replaced with excess consumption of fats and sugars. Yes, I’ve been living the facts as stated; but, I have the ability to supplement whereas most Georgian people do not.  The surveys and studies that have been done are really interesting to me as I have been living without benefit of good food. One banner headline states “We may not be hungry, but we are starving.”  They are not hungry as the bread (sometimes 3-loaves of bread at each meal) fills them up. For me, I just cannot eat that much bread so most nights I go to bed hungry. I will continue to follow these reports as they are so interesting to me.

I was in Tbilisi for (4) days during May in order to complete my exit appointments with Peace Corps Staff and also to begin my medical requirements. The Peace Corps is so complete in making sure that when we leave country (and/or Peace Corp) they know we are solid and whole (also, their liability is satisfied so that after the fact the volunteer cannot claim a problem that they didn’t know about).

Blood work, stool samples, physical examination, eye and dental examinations. I was poked and prodded for many days. Then, I had appointments with the Country Director, Training Manager and my Program Manager. I stayed, of course, at my favorite Envoy Hostel and had lots of  BEER J.

One of the sad aspects of renting the flat is that I won’t be staying at the Hostel any more. I really love this place and I love the view of the city that it provides. I won’t have that in my new place; but, I could always go back and visit. I know the staff and owner would welcome me to come back. That is such a nice feeling.

One more point on my new apartment (also called “Bina” in Georgian)….I understand that a former member of parliament is living in the building and as such 24/7 security must be had. So, there is a security guard outside the building around the clock. He has one of those security houses and a place inside the building so that he can keep warm (I imagine) once the weather changes to winter. This is a good thing I am told – but I get a little squirrely when someone is watching all the time.

In early June my class of Peace Corps Volunteers has been invited to a BBQ at the home of the US Georgian Ambassador and his wife. I am looking forward to this event; not only to see how the other half lives here in Georgia (smiles) – but to all connect with my fellow PCV’s one more time before we all leave country.

My counter-part teacher invited me to her home for dinner recently. It was so nice to sit and talk in peace and quiet (something we cannot do at school). The home of my counter-part was unbelievable. It has (16) rooms and most of the furniture in the house was of museum quality. I was overwhelmed seeing her place. It was a terrific evening.

The BIG Storm…..recently Sagarejo had a major storm. I know this because as I was returning to Sagarejo I noted that the road leading into the town was like a river. Cars parked along the road had water up to and covering the tires. Tree branches were all over the place. It seemed that I had just missed it. Conditions looked terrible and I wondered if I was going to get a cab up the mountain; however, I did. As we went up the mountain conditions looked worse than they did as we were coming in Sagarejo and then I arrived at my home.

When I got out of the cab everyone was outside on the road; my host family and my neighbors were walking up and down the road and everyone was crying. There was ice and snow on the ground that covered my shoes as I walked into the garden (remember this is Mid-May). One of the BIG apple trees was down and most of the flowers were scattered on the ground. The overhead grape vine looked wilted and the living room was soaked with water. I was concerned about my room; but, all was OK.

We all just looked at the destruction – no one wanted to go back into their houses. The wind must have been very powerful to knock trees down. I am so glad that I missed it; as most times with wind storms I think the roof is going to blow off. I did take pictures and I will post.

I will write more about this in June; but, on June 4^th the US Ambassador to Georgia will host a BBQ for my group of Peace Corps Volunteers who will be leaving service in 2016. I am sure it will be a nice event; and I will get to see many volunteers that I’ve not seen for a while. Stayed tuned for more details

As I sit here finishing up the blog I am listening to the dogs here in Sagarejo. This is one aspect of village life that I won’t miss. The people here in the village must like to hear their dogs barking as the barking just goes on and on. The owners are home and allow the dog to make noise; maybe it is a comfort thing. I don’t know; other than, it is awful. I can understand the cows and donkey noises; but there are more dogs than live stock and really no reason for the dogs to bark for hours and hours.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(Georgia)

So, as I close my next to the last blog as a Peace Corps Volunteer; today, here in Georgia – May 26^th. Is Independence Day (see link above). There were parades and concerts and all kinds of stuff going on across Georgia. It felt like 4^th of July in the United States.

All the best, Catherine Lawrence, G14 – 5/26/16

PeaceCorps Volunteer/Georgia

The contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.

Hello, My Faithful Readers

April 25, 2016

24 Months Served/2 More To Serve

Photographs at the bottom of the Blog.....Hope you Enjoy!

The BIG news is that the Pig has arrived. (Wilbur 3) – I am not allowed to name him but I do think of him as Wilbur 3. I didn’t see him arrive, but one day recently I heard him crying out back where the pig house is. When I went back to investigate I thought he was going to jump out of his pen and land on me (as I was looking in through the window).  During my time here I have watched two pigs grow; but, thankfully, I have not witness them being shot and slaughtered. Lots of animals cry here; especially dogs. This will be an aspect of village life that I won’t miss.

Things are very same-same (but not the same-old-same-old) here on my mountain. The cycle has started again and I sit and watch the family spend hours and hours in the garden. The trees have started to bloom and so have the flowers. I watch before I leave for school the tulips being closed up and then when I return from school they are open. I have never noticed that; even last year, I don’t remember watching the tulips. Now, this may be kind of boring, my faithful readers….but, this is what is happening. Of course, I am getting ready to leave service, packing and completing my reports; but the garden is the thing that has always captured me. I will miss is greatly.

I’ve been here in Georgia and the Peace Corps for a full two years; however, I must tell you it feels more like decades that it does years. You know how they say the years go by faster and faster the older you get; well, that has not been my experience. If the Peace Corps could bottle this experience and sell it as the Fountain of Youth….I know I would certainly buy it. Dealing with daily living here in-country (although I do complain, I know)…however, you really can’t focus on the hardships; as there is just too much else to deal with.

I am writing and listening to a car alarm. I cannot believe it. Its 9:22pm and I am looking out the window to see what car (there is only one here on my mountain) is screaming with a car alarm. I guess one of the neighbors has company as I don’t recognize the car. It was very strange to hear that sound as I’ve not heard a car alarm here in Sagarejo.

One of the teachers came into the teachers’ room with a can of opened beer. We all looked at her and waited for why she had beer at 10am in the morning. It seems that the teacher took the beer away from a student (8^th grade student) during class time. I’ve seen this before; both in the classroom and on buses and marshes. I don’t understand that Children drinking beer right out in the open and no one seem to think anything of it. I am so glad this teacher did take the beer away; but, I don’t think the practice will stop. Children drink at family gatherings (supras) and in fact it is encouraged.

This practice goes hand-in-hand with children driving the car. I’ve seen many children on the lap of the driver (usually a man) as they speed down the road. Sometimes the children are very young and/or I’ve seen young adults driving a car without benefit of an adult. I remember a half century ago this practice being done where I grew up. At that time I didn’t think anything of it; but now, heavens.  The way Georgians drive is horrible and to have children in the car; let alone helping drive it, is very upsetting.

Easter is coming here in Georgia. It is Sunday, May 1^st and the good news is that we have five days off from school. Yipeeeeee….I will write more about this as I will be spending a long weekend in Tbilisi and visiting with friends who have comfortable sofas J. I am looking forward to eating (real food); having showers and comfortable chairs. Easter in Georgia is a really big deal.

http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/common/orthodox-easter-monday

Over the next 10 weeks or so, the Peace Corps will send an email every Tuesday to help us transition from service here in Peace Corps Georgia back into real life. They will give us resources (not sure exactly what kind) and also what is available to us as former Peace Corps Volunteers. This is a really good thing; so, I am looking forward to the information.

I have finally grown in the classroom; and that means, that I do longer get myself angry or upset (as much) when the students continually talk on their phones, talk to each other during class time or punch/hit each other during class. This has been the behavior of the students for the entire 24 months that I have been here. I am asked to read text to the students so they can hear English from a native speaker; however, most times I have to talk over the students or stop and wait for them to stop talking. What I now do is just keep reading while they continue talking or fighting or they are on their phones, or whatever. It is really very bazaar; but, these kids have no interest in what I am doing or what their regular teacher is doing for that matter. Most, not all, come to school doing what they have been trained to do since 1^st grade; and that is play. They have not been taught that school is different than a school yard, playground or a circus for that matter. They run screaming through the halls as every 45 minutes when classes change they have recess. When class starts again they arrive late back to the classroom and they are overheated as they have been running and jumping (on each other); playing tag or hide-n-go-seek in the hallways. Sometimes kick the bottle is played in the classroom and hallways. It is a horror, at least to me. I can handle it most days as I know I am not going to change anything. But there are days that all of this makes me ill. Overall, I know it is not the fault of the children; it just makes me angry and then I get sad.

This is an aspect of my service that I will not miss. I love teaching; and sadly by any stretch of the imagination I have not been teaching. It is more like crowd control. The book “lord of the flies” comes to mind as clearly the children are in control. They know that no matter what their behavior no consequences will fall on them. They may get hollered at; but, it does not impact or bother them. We all continue to try; but it gets increasingly more difficult as the week goes on. By Wednesday I am exhausted (really earlier than that). One of the most astounding things is that the teachers really don’t see how complicit they are in teaching the children to behave in such an undisciplined way. They ask me for suggestions to positively change behaviors; however, once given they make excuses for the children and it just goes around in a circle. I just don’t offer advice any longer. Even when I am asked; I just smile and change the subject.

Sometimes I am floored with the inconsideration that is exhibited by people (in general) and I don’t know why I am surprised that the Georgian people are inconsiderate also (probably a part of the human condition). In this land that is constantly referred to as hospitable I have been left walking on the road home by host family members and extended family members/neighbors. I felt really bad when these events happened; but, then I realized that I have nothing to feel bad about. These folks driving past me (sometimes while it was raining/cold/wind/snow) and waving at me as they drive by should feel embarrassed. As I walk up the road to the location that they have driven to, I am astounded at the greeting that I get – welcoming me. I think – why did you not be generous and offer me a ride? I know it would not do any good to say anything as I really don’t think they see anything inconsistent with hospitality and my being left on the road. At the moment, I am writing this at 1:30am as the neighbors are having a party and they have large speakers screaming music. There is no way I can sleep. The music is rap and I’ve heard the “blank-blank” word (you know what I mean) been shouted out through these speakers.  It is insulting to have to be captive to be forced to be a part of this – no choice; where am I going to go or who to call. These people, if I asked them to lower the music, would look at me like my head is screwed off.

April 15^th, here in Georgia, is known as the “Day of Love”. Of course in the United States April 15^th is known as “Death Day” – AKA,Tax day – (yes, Virginia – it is all semantics)…..in any event here is the Story of the “Day Of Love”. In a land far, far away (known as Georgia) the military men were not allowed to marry. It seems that the work was so dangerous and the nation didn’t want to have a community of military widows….so, that is the way it went. Until one day, a priest (and let’s face it Religion rules this country) said it was a stupid rule. The military should be allowed to marry. So, on this date – April 15^th, he married the 1^st military couple and the rest is history. Now, military men and women can marry. And they all lived happily ever after…..:-)

Another experience I can share with you was something that was/is so foreign to me I can hardly believe it happened. In a nutshell, I was “Catfished!” I had no idea what this word meant prior to my experience. Basically, it has come about as a result of the internet world. It is a scam perpetrated via skype and the internet (e-mail). I cannot even say “Only in America” – as it is happening all over the world.  The term comes from a movie of the same name. It is about Relationships that are built on lies and fabrication of facts that really, initially, how could anyone prove or disprove. The electronic world does not adhere to borders….and you can be anyone you want to be. 

And so, here is my story.

I was contacted by a man through one of the dating sites I had placed a profile on. I was surprised as I thought I had removed all my on-line profiles as seriously, I had given up on this method of meeting people. So, when I was contacted I was surprised and pleased as the man (in the electronic world) was a powerhouse (in my opinion). Whoever I was speaking to mis-represented him/herself as someone else. A military man, who was high in rank and had a profession (pilot) that was made-up/not true. He was a widow (with a pre-teen daughter) and really spun a weave of lies that was so convincing -  he/she really had me on the ropes for a little bit of time. I believe, as there was no way I could dis-prove, some of his tall tales. He said he was in Kabul and being in a war zone, well – I would imagine the men and women live under different rules. Our conversation was not his first “Rodeo” and I was totally duped. There were some inconsistencies in our dialogue; but then as humans we do believe what we want to believe. As much as my “trust” meter was going crazy (at times); I wanted to give this a chance and not kill it (as I usually do romantic relationships) before they have a chance to walk.

So, it came to a head when we were making plans to meet. It seems that I would have to request of his commanding officer time off. I would need to do this claiming to be his spouse (of course, on email). In addition, I would need to send 1400 pounds (which is $2,000US) to an address in London that I would get back (as it was totally reimburseable) when I met this man  - (and BTW – once I met him I was never going to be able let him leave). LOL (Laughing out Loud) – Wow, was I floored. This person (as I have no idea if it was a man or a woman (maybe an alien) was totally serious.

I felt like I needed a shower. I felt like I wanted to throw up. What a scam. Mad at myself (initially) that I walked into this; but, these folks really know how to push buttons. I am alone but not lonely. I have a great life  – but, I would welcome a wonderful relationship into my life. Taking a chance; trying to live life being not so suspicious and jaded. Well, all of this reinforced my way of being (which is really the saddest aspect of all this).

What can I say; I was taken in – but, not for long. I did see the person behind the curtain and came through unscathed. Sad and disappointed; but I will live. I write this very soon as all this ended so I am sure that more will come to light as time goes forward and I can reflect further.

Onto other things….the grandmother is so deaf. She puts the television on at such a high level and then she goes into the garden. Honestly, you can hear the television while you are at the end of the road. I turn the TV down; and she turns it up. The noise comes through the floorboards in to the second floor.  The windows vibrate with the level of sound….even my headphones cannot deaden the noise.

The heat is finally off in the school. I was surprised that the heat remained on until mid-April. I know last year the heat went off on April 1^st. The weather has not been that cold; but the rain is the thing. It is sometimes so cold and damp that I still need to use my space heater just to take the chill off the room. So, I guess winter is really over (smiles)….maybe.

One more thing about the schools….the children sleep in class. I wake them up and they look at me and then put their head back down. Seriously, they have no qualms about disobeying adults. The children just do whatever it is they want. I know, from my host family, that everyone goes to bed very late. The children especially sometimes don’t get to bed until after midnight or later; so, no wonder they are tired in class. Most times they come home from school and take a nap – so that allows them to stay up late and the circle continues. The sleeping in class bothers me terribly. What is more upsetting is that the teachers don’t think there is anything wrong with this. They brush it off as the children are tired; and it is OK to sleep during the lesson. There is just so much I don’t understand and the longer I am here the more I don’t understand. Teaching to folks sleeping is so unbelievable I cannot get my head around it. It is like talking to empty chairs.

Over the weekend of April 23^rd; I went to a town (out West in Georgia) called Dzevrie. I’ve been to this location last summer for a summer camp; so, the locale was familiar. We went (other Peace Corps Volunteers and myself) to play baseball with students from the local school. It was a real hoot!

We started by arriving Friday and the Director of the school organized a “Supra” for us. This was my first “Supra” with PCV’s; so, this was also a new experience. We ate (of course Georgian Food) and drank the local wine. The Director’s children (a boy and girl, ages 10 and 9) danced the traditional Georgian dances for us and even had some of us up dancing with them. It was a tremendous good time.  The next day we assembled on the ball field to play ball. We were scheduled for 4 innings; which I thought was too little; however, it took us over 2-hours to play 4-innings and we were all exhausted. The children were GREAT; although, they lost to the winning Peace Corps Volunteers. I did go to bat twice and hit the ball each time. I was not fast enough to run to 1^st base; but, I was thrilled to even have hit (hard ball) the ball. The weather was spotless, not a cloud in the sky and you could see the mountains in the distance (with snow on the tops) as we were guarding the bases and fields on defense.

After the game we all started for various places. I came back to Tbilisi; other PCV’s went to Batumi and others went various other towns. However, first we were treated to a lunch on Georgian food. It was really lovely.

I’ve attached a picture of the teams after the game.

A couple of final thoughts: My host father has stopped smoking. This is a big deal and initially I didn’t understand why. Men here in Georgia smoke a lot. It is rare that I see a man without a cigarette in his mouth. However, it seems that cigarettes have increased in price. I don’t know how much; but apparently enough so that people are being forced to stop smoking. Well, this is really a good thing. I hope that it continues as I know how hard it is to stop smoking.

And finally, so many children in my school are walking around with their arms in slings, hands are bandaged, on crutches, legs in cast, head bandages….I don’t know what happened; or maybe nothing more than the usual rough-housing the kids do both in and out of school. However, it just seemed like so many children were hurt in some way.

So, here I am at the end of another blog. Thank you for sharing this crazy ride with me. The G-16’s have arrived in-country. These are the folks that will replace my group, the G-14’s (meaning – the 14^th group to service in the Republic of Georgia).

All the best, Catherine Lawrence, G14

Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia  - April 25, 2016

The contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps