Blog, March 29^th, 2015

Hello, My Faithful Readers:

It has been a challenging couple of weeks for me. It seems that I have a parasite and this parasite really has his/her hooks into me. It is doing the “Macarena” on my intestinal system. I am not in any pain; but, I am exhausted with the numbers of times I need to use the facilities. At times I feel like I am prepping for a colonoscopy (if you have had one you know what I mean). It is really nasty and that, coupled with the fact, that there are very few public facilities here (both Sagarejo and Tbilisi) – well, it has been an ordeal.

One of the major concerns of all this is the “unpredictability” of when my parasite decides that I need to use the facilities. I can give you example after example, but I think you get the picture. I had to cancel my trip to Zugdidi as it was a six-hour marsh ride and there was no way that I could handle that. (The bus/marshs here in Georgia don’t have bathrooms on board). I was really disappointed as I was to represent the University of Pennsylvania at a career fair. Friends have told me to name my parasite and others have said I am just too friendly with my parasite; which is why he/she has stuck around.

In any event, the PC doctors have been terrific. I have some additional medication; however, I am told that it takes months/months to repair the digestive/intestinal systems after events like this. That is fine with me as long as I know that I am on the road to recovery.

Link below:  European Youth Olympics in Tbilisi, July 25 – August 1^st. 

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, will host the 2015 European Youth Olympics. I am told that I can volunteer to be part of this; so, I will check it out. http://www.tbilisi2015.com/en/

This was an amazing experience for me:

As I was looking out the window of the English Cabinet Room in my school, I observed many people walking silently in the middle of the street. I did not know what to make of it; and then, I saw what was happening. It was a funeral. There were six men holding the casket on their shoulders walking in the middle of the group. Now, I’ve seen this type of procession before on television; however, what made this different was that the casket was open. I, along with everyone else, could see the person in the casket as he was being carried on the shoulders of the six men. I could see the man in the casket dressed in a suit with his hands crossed upon his chest. He was lying in fabric of white and his head was on a pillow. His body was not recessed into the casket; it was raised up so that everyone could see him lying in state as the procession went by.

I am so taken back by this scene. It was so unexpected. I didn’t know what to make of it. The procession went on for some time with people walking before the casket and after the casket. There was no conversation; it was quiet. There was no music as sometimes I’ve seen happen in a funeral marches such as this. There were no cars in the procession and people who were walking along the sidewalks stopped and watched as the procession went forward. I didn’t see any flowers or religious items in the procession. I don’t know where they were going. I assume the cemetery; but, I don’t know. This was a truly unique experience for me.

English Stress Words - topic of conversation recently between me and my English Teacher Counter-part. I have never given this topic any thought, but it was interesting to read.

https://www.englishclub.com/pronunciation/word-stress-rules.htm

My 9^th grade class was charged with doing a presentation on some of the “extreme sports.”  I’ve seen two of the presentations so far. The first is “Zorbing” and the second is “Parkour”.  I’ve listed links below in case you want to explore these topics. I had no idea; but then, I am not surprised. It seems like someone is always pushing the envelope of what can be done with the human body.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zorbing

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour

Georgia named among 10 saddest countries in the world

http://www.georgianjournal.ge/society/30022-georgia-named-among-10-saddest-countries-in-the-world.html

Tattooing – So what do you think? Should I get a tattoo? Any suggestions as to what I should get?  The reason I am asking is that good friends of mine, here in Georgia decided they would get a tattoo before they left Georgia.  I have their permission to talk about this – so, no names will be mentioned but they are a married couple and they are in their 70’s. I was just stunned when they told me what they were going to do.  They decided to have “Peace Corps Georgia 2013-2015” tattooed (in Georgian) onto their upper arms. Wow, that is a LOT of text. They wanted it placed there so that they could cover it with a shirt if they didn’t want anyone to see it. But yet the location was not really hidden so they could see it whenever they wanted.  I have asked for a photograph of the art work and will post it when it arrives in my email.

Here in Georgia birthdays are celebrated like there is no tomorrow; however, there is one birthday that is not celebrated and I am told it is hardly even recognized. That birthday is the 40^th birthday!  I am reminded of a saying in America that goes: “The first 40 belong to everyone else; and, the second 40 belong to you.” Maybe that is the reason; but, I have no idea really.  Even though it is not celebrated, I wanted to buy someone special a special present for her 40^th birthday. I thought about dusting powder, like Jean Nate Dusting Powder; however, here in Georgia they do not sell ANY kind of body powder. They have lots of face powder; but, nothing else. I would have liked to know this sooner; but alas, I did not. Maybe this is a gift for next year.

http://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Jean-Deodorizing-Silkening-Powder-6/dp/B000MT1GHA/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426918189&sr=8-4&keywords=jean+nate+products

Useless information - Something to think about:

I read a line in a book recently that made me LOL…that is “Do you think that the Burger King and the Dairy Queen will get married”….now, ponder that J

I had an interesting soup experience recently; this was a first for me. I love soup, all kinds and I am always up to trying new things (well, maybe not so willing here in Georgia); however, once I said I would try it I was committed. It seems that the family boiled meat (looked like beef) in a pot and the water that the meat was boiled in was then served as “soup.” There were some herbs in the broth; but, basically it was boiled water that was flavored by the beef that was boiled in it. It was LOADED with salt. Well, I had to be diplomatic about this as the family seemed like they were approaching something wonderful. They proceeded to load the broth with bread (maybe a quarter of a loaf) and that is how they ate it (maybe the bread absorbed the salt)? I did eat some; and then had some of the salty beef…..It is something that I would decline in the future.

Another food experience was the introduction of  “Salad” on the table. This was a real surprise for me as during the 11 months I’ve been here I have never been served salad in a Georgian home. I was so excited. I saw onions, lettuce (not sure what kind), cucumbers and something else that was green that I have no idea what it was. Well, my excitement turned to dread when I tasted the salad. I don’t know what kind of dressing was placed on the salad but it was awful. It tasted like the bottom of a pot that has been used and not cleaned (sort of like tin, if you know what I mean). Now, I know my family cleans everything the best they can; so, I cannot fathom what the dress was. I was not in the room during the preparation; so, I am clueless. Everyone at the table grabbed at the salad like it was going to disappear if they didn’t get a portion. I had to mask my portion with the potatoes…it was the only way that it would go down. I need to investigate this more.

Introducing the “Hokey-Pokey” to the students was a lot of fun. We didn’t have a lot of time with this dance; but, the students (3^rd grade) just loved it. I love the “Hokey-Pokey” also….so, I know we will explore this in the weeks to come.

I was surprised recently when one of my counter-part teachers showed me a clip of a TED talk on the computer. Wow, you know about TED? I found that only one teacher was familiar and I still have not found any students who know about this. The Georgian’s here in Sagarejo cannot get past playing with FB so they really don’t see what else the computer has to offer.  I was so excited about a TED talk that I wanted to create a lesson plan around it. It was on the topic of success and discussed the characteristics (persistence, etc) that go into making one successful. Well, to my disappointment the teacher didn’t like it. I tried to draw her out to determine why she didn’t want to do a lesson around it and have yet to understand why. I think this is an important topic; so, I will continue to pursue.

Closets are a “missing” here in Georgia. I have not yet been in a house that has a closet. Most have wardrobes; that is, a piece of furniture that you can hang items in or the houses have hooks on the wall so that you can hang stuff on. I imagine that the Georgian people just don’t have a lot of stuff to place in closets; so the wardrobe does a sufficient job. However, as an American – I have lots of stuff. I just don’t have any place to put things.  In my host family’s home any excess clothing that does not fit in the wardrobe or on a hook ends up piled on a chair.

If I am shopping during the week and I see something that the family needs; like tea, toilet paper, napkins, Tide laundry detergent (stuff like that); I usually pick up the items and give to the family. This is in addition to the money that the Peace Corps give the family to off-set any expense I am being for them. I am not required to buy anything additional; however, I just want to contribute and the items are not that expensive. So, what I have been noticing is that when I buy an item the family stops buying that item. One example is napkins – now I find that if I don’t buy napkins the family does not buy it. Any items that I buy the family stops buying.

Now, I didn’t know what to make of this. I really didn’t want to feel obligated to buy the item again and again just because I bought it the first time. Honestly, I started to resent it a little bit. Especially when my finances were low and I didn’t have extra money for toilet paper.

What I have come to realize is that once I buy something the family THINKS that this is something I want to do and that they don’t want to infringe on my buying the item. Now I see all of this very different and I am very hesitant to buy anything additional as I just don’t have the resources to supply the family with staples such as I mentioned on a consistent basis. There is so much I still don’t understand.

Recently, I was able to bring a company called “Education USA” to my school to talk to the students and teachers. This was probably one of the, if not the BEST, experience I’ve had in the school to date. This is a company that helps students navigate the system in order to study in the USA.

 http://educationusa.state.gov/your-5-steps-us-study

The 10^th graders were the target audience; however, I invited 9^th, 11^th and 12^th grades (as well as any teachers) who wanted to join in. The classroom was packed. I was so happy to see this and even happier with the behavior of the students. There was not a sound in the room, with the exception of the Education USA representative who was speaking. She spoke for 2 lessions; that is 90 minutes. The bell rang half way through the presentation; but nobody left the room. Students were actually taking notes. The speaker asked questions and gave a coffee cup to students answering. She spoke in Georgian so I didn’t follow all of it; but, I did manage to get some of it. She spoke about what they need to do in order to apply; SAT, TESOL, etc., She spoke about the timeline and also about money (both to use Education USA services as well as how to finance an education in the USA).

Days later the students and teachers were still talking about it. I hear from many, many students that they don’t think the education in Georgia is top notch and they want to study outside of the country. They felt that this may be an opportunity to make that happen.  I’ve also been asked to have the Education USA representative come back and speak to another school in Sagarejo. We will work towards that goal.

A fellow PCV has shared some of  her books with me. This is interesting to me because, as you know, I am a book junkie. I don’t know if I could really do this 27-months here in the PC without books. In any event, the books were transmitted via email and I was able to move them onto my Kindle Icon. This was SO COOL. The only down side to this is that I now read books on the computer; but, I would much rather read books with a “book” in my hand. However, I am loving all the new titles that she has been sending me. I found a new author, Michael Connelly and just fell in love with his style of writing. He writes about murder/suspense/mystery (which are subjects that I am just enthralled with); but, it is so not typical. I am very often surprised by his writing and for me that is a thrill. Most times I can pretty much imagine what is going to happen; but, no so with Michael Connelly.

One of the interesting things that continues for me here is the face that I cannot concentrate on any reading materials of great substance. I’ve tried Hemingway and John Fennimore Cooper (to name two); however, I just cannot focus on the depths of their writing. I have had spells like this before; but, none that have lasted so long. Maybe I just have so many other challenges here that I don’t need to be challenged by what I read. I just read for escape, diversion and enjoyment.

I want to close by talking a little about my host family. I just love all these people. But the one person who consistently has my heart is the grandmother. This woman is 80 years old and she is a force of nature. She takes no guff from anyone. She goes toe-to-toe with her son (my host father) and anyone else that she has a disagreement with. She works in the garden pulling up weeds and pruning flowers; she feeds the chickens; brings in the wood for the pechi; she cooks, cleans, etc., etc.,  but most of all she watches soap operas. I hate soap operas; but, I like to watch her watching soap operas. Her attention to the television is 100%. She watches television like the program is going to reveal the mystery of the universe. She takes her food from the kitchen table to the TV if her favorite program is on. I make fun of her and she laughs. I say, soap operas are “kiss, kiss – then – cry-cry” but I act it out. She just loves it.

We sit together often in the pechi room and on the porch and just watch sometimes nothing. She is so warm and loving to me. She tells me, in Georgian, so many nice things about what she thinks of me. I need my family to interpret; but, I know it will all be good. I sometimes grab her and dance for a minute if there is a song on the television. She is always surprised and exhausted when she finally sits down. We bake potatoes on the pechi and she is always stuffing my pockets with fruits and vegetables and candy.  She speaks to me in Georgian like I should be a native speaker. I laugh and say “I don’t understand” – of course, I can say that in Georgian and she laughs….we do communicate in a way that surprised me.

I have so many fond memories of my own grandmother and at times I can see my own grandmother when I look at my Georgian Grandmother. My grandmother was a Russian-Pole so there are many similarities. I feel, at times, that I am re-living an earlier part of my life to have my grandmother back again. I was named after my grandmother. Her name was Katie. I never knew if that was a nickname or if her real name was the same as mine. All I know is that this is such a unique experience for me.

I will close for now and promise that my next post will have some photographs about life here in Georgia. For example, as a walk up and down the mountain I interact with donkeys, sheep, lamb, chickens - who are all welcome in my world. Having a camera is a new experience for me. This is the first camera that I’ve owned in 30-years, so it is not a habit of mine. Also, I just cannot get into all the “selfies” that is all the rage. For me, taking photographs takes me “out of the moment of being present” and it seems like work to me. But, I will try my best to do better. J

All my best to everyone out there in blog land!

Catherine Lawrence, G14

Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia – 3/29/15

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

Sunday, March 15^th, 2015

Hello, My Faithful Readers:

I have three photographs for your viewing pleasure.

The first is me my host brother and sister on the occasion of my host sister’s 18^th birthday!  The second is a photo of the back garden. It is finally plowed and ready for planting. I dream about the corn that will come this summer. The third photo is of me and my counter-part teacher at a recent conference.

I may have mentioned this in an earlier blog; maybe – but, all of this seems to be getting harder. I am so happy that winter is ALMOST behind us; but, with the month of March one never can tell. Maybe it has been the LONG winter (even thought it has not really been that bad). I’ve had heat and even though the cold comes through the walls and windows it has stayed between 60-65 degrees in my room. Of course I always have layers of clothing on; but, way better than I thought.  (these old houses just don’t have much if any insulation). Maybe as the trees bloom and the flowers start to grow my mood will lighten and things will seem better.

Everything here is just hard….nothing (or very little) seems easy. I think that adds to the weight that living here causes. I hear so often from folks about the poverty that exists and how difficult that is. However, what is even more difficult is the lack of opportunity. I think all of this is hitting me hard as the dust has settled now (after almost 11 months that I have been here) and I can see beyond the surface of life here.

I wanted to share something GREAT that happened in school recently!

So, the GREAT experience happened in the 6^th Grade. Now, this classroom is usually out of control with talking, punching, noises, walking around the room, etc., etc., etc. and I consistently watch the time waiting for it to be over. However, I tried something different in the hopes that it might make a difference. Now, I thought 6^th graders (and was told this also by the counter-part teacher) would be “beyond” liking to get a sticker for completed work; however, I was so wrong. I had “sponge bob” stickers and during book work I was walking around placing stickers in the book of those that were completing the assignment. Well, the room went from bedlam to one of noise, but the noise was different. The students were working in their books and talking to each other about parts of the assignment they didn’t understand. Many students were copying from one another (and I was not happy about that); but the bottom line here was that they were working rather than playing.  Wow, you could have knocked me over with a feather.  As I walked around checking the work, making corrections and placing “sponge bob” on their papers; the students continued on in the book and were doing additional exercises. They wanted me to see what they were doing!  When the bell rang to change class the students kept on working. It was a sight to behold. I imagine that “incentive” is always a good motivator; and, I will continue to use this strategy in the hopes that maybe my counter-part teacher, with the help of “sponge bob” and other sticker friends can maybe coax another or different type of learning environment in the room.

So, here is the flip size:

I did see something new for the first time in the 10^th grade; and that was, students were actually talking on the phone while class was going on. The teachers did try her best to get the phones away; but, it’s a lost cause. With so many students in the room as soon as the teacher turns her back the phones come back out and the students continue doing what they were originally doing; that is, talking on the phone, texting or playing video games (even laughing and talking back to the teacher). The teachers operate like a policeman a lot of the time and while she is patrolling for phones, etc., she is not teaching. The older students look at me and then they ignore me. The dis-respect is tangible. Usually the students are playing games on the phone during class or texting; however, this was the first for me to see students actually talking. The students are just so brazen to be so open about what they know is not accepted. The majority of the time when I ask for the phone the student looks at me and puts the phone on his/her pocket. There is not, if any, respect afforded for the teacher in the class. One student was not only was talking but she had her phone charging in the outlet so that her battery would not run out. The student actually said something to the teacher (not sure what it was, as it was in Georgian) as she was so upset to have to end her conversation and take her phone charger out of the outlet so that the teacher could plug in the audio visual device that was needed for class. I don’t know what was said but I know it upset the teacher.

I was recently made aware of a “Moniker” that has been attached to me. Now, I’ve heard the word before (Moniker) but I really didn’t know what it meant. In any event, my “Moniker” or nick name, or alternate identifier is “CLaw”. This is my first name initial and the first three letters of my last name. Well, I cannot tell you how much I like that “Moniker”. J  - I realize that on some documents or lists people are identified by the above reference; however, I never paid much attention. When you read the letters it does not make much of an impact (at least to me); however, when you hear it spoken – well, it is a completely different story. I like it!  Sometimes I think I have way too much time on my hands…HA! Also, please disregard the fact that it could also be identified as “claw” – yuck!

I spend a lot of time in the school closing doors. Yes, you heard that correct. I spend a lot of time closing the front and back doors to the school. I also close the door that leads out to the school yard. I have had this conversation with myself over and over as to “Why don’t students (and parents) close the door after they leave or enter the school?”  The school has limited heat and yet with the doors open (and sometimes the windows are also opened) the heat escapes to make the school colder than it has to be. I watch as the adults watch me close the door and then I turn away to return to the classroom only to find the door open once again and the adults that were watching have disappeared. This baffles me consistently throughout the day. I ask why and don’t receive any answers. This is also true in the home of my host family. It REALLY has been cold to have the front door closed. Most times the front door is wide open, just like in the schools.

I was recently at the Aviabari Metro stop as I was going to do a walking tour; however, as I realized it was 3-hour tour (sort of like Gilligan) and I had my backpack filled with supplies and books – well, I thought better than to lug that around for such a long period. I will schedule the tour for another day when my backpack is lighter.

However, during my time above ground at the station I noticed a woman sitting near the metro exit. Lots of people were coming up to her table; but, I could not see what she was selling. She didn’t have the usual fare on her table (candles, combs/brushes and other type items). So, I moved in closer only to realize that she was selling cigarettes one at a time. There was a pack of cigarettes open on the table and people came up and took one and lit it. Now, this was something that was completely unexpected for me. I think it was 30 Tetri for each cigarette. Not sure if there is a health law about selling individual cigarettes?   

Minor Unit: 
1/100 = Tetri

As part of the walking tour, the below location was on the agenda. I am sorry I missed it, but the tour guide will give the tour again and I will go. I’ve listed some links below if you want to obtain more information because that is all I can tell you at the moment.  Also, on the agenda was a visit to a private puppet theater of Gari Davtian. Still looking for the link; but absolutely I just love puppet theater and will stake out a claim at some point to visit. I am sure there were many other sights on the tour and cannot wait to connect with the tour guide for future treks.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294195-d4961521-Reviews-J_Stalin_s_Underground_Printing_House_Museum-Tbilisi.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g294195-d4961521-i122698308-J_Stalin_s_Underground_Printing_House_Museum-Tbilisi.html

Also, I discovered a museum that chronicles the Soviet Occupation of Georgia. I’ve not been, but it is on my list…..should be interesting. Below is the link if you want to learn more.

http://www.georgianmuseums.ge/?lang=eng&id=1_1&sec_id=1&th_id=30

I decided to cancel my trip to Baku, Azerbaijan. I know I am so close and I already have a visa (which usually cost $160US for 30-days); however, making the trek just felt so blah, blah…I didn’t want to invest the time and money. The plan was to go on or near St. Patrick’s Day. This is the country I was originally supposed to go to serve in the PC; but, the government cancelled their invitation to the PC so everyone who was currently serving ended up coming home early. I count my blessings that all that happened prior to my going in-country to Azerbaijan. Maybe that is in the background as to why it just felt so blah, blah to go.

In any event, I am working on another plan to go to Armenia over Easter break. The capital is Yerevan and I’ve listed a link to a map picture of the city with Mount Ararat in the background. I am told it is a very cosmopolitan city and there are LOTS of Peace Corps Volunteers serving there. So, even though I will be going by myself, I can connect with friends once I arrive. I will travel by marshrutka and I am working all that out now.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8a/Mount_Ararat_and_the_Yerevan_skyline.jpg

I am now bringing in the firewood from the woodshed. Wow, what a kick that is. I don’t know why I’ve not done it before; however, it just never occurred to me before now. So, out the door I go back to the woodshed. I can carry maybe six or seven logs (depending on the size) to bring into the house for use in the pechi. It is a balancing act as the path to the woodshed is not paved. It is dirt, gravel and going out it “uphill” and coming back is “downhill.” I feel really good when I do this and the family is just amazed that I am doing this. Now, if I can get the courage I will place a log on the fire…stay tuned!

I was recently asked by my Education Program Manager to accompany her to visit three schools in the area. The purpose was to determine whether or not to place an in-coming PCV in the school starting in July 2015. I was really honored to be able to do this and it was a revelation. Two of the schools that we went to had no heat. They had “pechi” stoves; however, the school rooms were so big you would have needed maybe four “pechi” stoves in order to adequately heat the room. The smoke from the “pechi” was not so thick that you could cut it with a knife; however, there was lots of smoke in the room (even though it was vented outside). The rooms were cold; bone cold. I could see the sheer curtains blowing even though the windows were closed. The bathrooms were outside; but they were as clean as you can possible have an outhouse.

Both of these schools applied for a PCV. We spoke to the Director and the English Teachers and at each school they were so excited and so in need of having new ideas brought into the school. The third school was different. The school had heat and was in very good shape. It seems that this school did have a PCV a couple of years ago and they were looking for a repeat. I felt that this school was light years ahead of the first two and believed that resources being limited it would be best to eliminate this third school and concentrate on schools that needed to catch up. Of course, I don’t make these decisions; but, they asked for my comments and I was honest about what I thought. We shall see how this resolves; but, it was an eye opener for me. The school that I currently teach in is on a much higher level so I get to newly appreciate what I have.

I am always amazed at how much un-used land there is here in Georgia. When I take the marsh back and forth to Tbilisi; 80% (I bet) of the land that I see is unused/empty. Acres and Acres of rolling hills as far as the eye can see appear as I travel the highway. The landscape is very bleak at the moment; however, during spring and summer it is just beautiful.

I was finally able to begin my “Adult English Club” here in Sagarejo. This is a project that I have been trying to get off the ground since last year. First of all, I had no idea how to do this. I have taught reading to adults; however, I had no idea how to teach English. I spent a lot of time researching how to do this; as I didn’t want to spend a LOT of time on grammar. I wanted to give the adults some functional English that they could use in their daily lives. Finally, on March 10^th the first class was held and to my dismay no one showed up. Although I was sad about that fact I was not surprised.

My counter-part English Teachers and I created a poster (of sorts) and distributed it around the community (as it was to be open to EVERYONE). We posted the flyers in store windows and gave copies to other community organizations around Sagarejo. We had the poster translated into both English and Georgian. I will continue to hold classes regardless if anyone shows up as I think eventually some folks will arrive.  If not, I will have to change the direction in some way.

This is something that the community has asked me to do since I arrive here back in July. When it was finally scheduled the question that I was most asked was “Why am I doing this?” This surprised me as this is what the community asked me to do. In addition, since your children are learning English I think it would be helpful if they could speak English to their parents or other adults. This seemed to make sense to me – maybe, the adults are apprehensive. So, I will persist and let you know how things progress.

So, one final note on the medical front that I’d like to share. I’ve been told that due to my symptoms I probably have a parasite. Yipee and are you kidding me? I’ve been struggling with this for some time now; however, the symptoms got pretty bad so I finally went to see the doctor. They did some testing and prescribed a strong antibiotic to kill the bacteria. It will take a couple of days for it to kick-in; so, I’ll let you know in the next blog how it all worked out. I have no idea where I picked it up; other than, lots of other folks also have the dreaded bacteria. If this antibiotic does not work, they will try another strong medication.

One the best parts of this was that I got to spend a couple of days in Tbilisi at the hostel the PC uses for medical patients. It is an OK hostel. It was not a very modern hostel, but clean and close to the PC office. The shower was awesome. In two days I took four showers. Sorry if all this is redundant; however, this is my life now. I measure happiness with how many showers I can steal and how much “real” food (by that I mean non-Georgian) I can get. I was not feeling so great so I spent most of the time at the hostel; but, it was nice to be away from school and from Sagarejo for a couple of days. One day I actually slept for 12-hours straight. It felt great.

Ok, I think I will close for now more to come in another blog.

My Best to you on this The Ides of March!

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.

Blog, February 25, 2015

Hello, My Faithful Readers:

Sorry, no photographs with the blog….next time for sure!

Here we are – 10 months in and the BEST news is that I am HEALED!

 I recently had a follow-up appointment so that I could have my rib section x-rayed and everything came back A-ok. Thank goodness; but then, I could feel that all was well.  So, onward and upward….thank you to whoever is looking out for me “up there or down there!” J

Some days it feels like time is moving very slow and then at other times I cannot believe that I have been here for 10 months. Next month, March 2015, the group before me (the G13’s) will be meeting for the COS conference, which means Close of Service. Most of the G13’s will leave on or around July 2015 and the PC does lots of planning and scheduling so that everyone (volunteers) are not leaving at the same time. In addition, in April 2015 the new group of volunteers (G15’s) will be coming into Georgia. It is an organizational feat to manage all the details that go into volunteers leaving and volunteers coming in; as well as, managing my group the G14’s. I heard that come July 2016 the Democratic Party (USA) will be holding its convention in my home town (Philadelphia). It gave me pause as that is when I am slated to finish with the Peace Corps and return to the States (maybe!)  

Dogs, Dogs, Dogs…..so many dogs here in Sagarejo. I am not really afraid; however, I am not thrilled when I see so many dogs wandering around looking (I imagine) for food or shelter. I still have flashbacks of my encounter with the dog pack a while back; so, I am always mindful of my surroundings. So, the other day, as I was walking home, I watched as one of the neighbor’s dogs was running right towards me.  I thought that he would run right past me; however, that was not the case. With his mouth open and teeth showing he was coming right for me. I pushed my back pack out in front of me and gave it a swing so it was in front of me – using my right arm as a barrier (kinda like fighting a bull). His head hit the side of my right arm. Although he didn’t break my arm, a day or so later I noticed that it was bruised and black and blue. My arm was sore from the impact. This dog was big. His head came up almost to my waist.

I thought he would leave; however, he circled around and came back at me. I didn’t want to turn my back on him and walk away, so I picked up a rock and again thought he would leave; but, he started barking and with teeth showing and mouth open and kept making moves toward me. I threw some rocks at him but he stayed in his stance dodging the rocks. I didn’t know where to go or what to do and at this time I noticed that there was a man down near where I thought the dog lived. I started to holler at the man to come get his dog. The man just stood there and watched me with this dog. I really don’t know if he was the owner or not; but, once again I was left in jeopardy with help not coming. The man finally called the dog and the dog went running toward him. I was so angry and yet I was afraid to walk down towards the man (who now had the dog with or near him).

I stood in place for a couple of minutes thinking that I was not a stranger to this area. I was also very shaken by this experience. This man was a neighbor and everyone on this stretch of the roads knows who I am. Why would they allow this dog to threaten me?  I advised the Peace Corps (Safety and Security Director) of this incident and also my host family. I have to walk past where this dog lives in order to get to school and then come home - and I am not happy about it.  I will need to secure some type of weapon to protect myself; and also, think about the possibility of relocating. This makes me very sad as I love my host family and I love where I live; however, I cannot live in fear. I know there are dogs everywhere; however, here on the mountain there are very few people and as evidenced by my recent experience people are not really willing to help. At least if I live closer to the center of the city there are more people around as well as the sort of hospital. I will have to think on this long and hard.

Since I’ve been here on the mountain I’ve walked past this dog but he was behind fencing and chained to his dog house. Every time I walked by he started barking and jumping up on the dog house as if trying to get over the fencing; however, the chain would not allow it. That, in and of itself, was frightening. I wondered what would happen if he could get out. Now I know.

Follow-up: The Peace Corps spoke to my Host Family (HF) and the HF in turn spoke to the owner of the dog. I was told that the owner apologized and said he would keep the dog chained and not allow him to run free. I pray that this happens; however, I am a very skeptical that it will. Often what is said and what happens in reality are two different things. The Peace Corps said that if another incident occurs they would involve the police; but, my concern is that if another incident happens it may be after this dog really hurts me (not just bruising my arm) and as has been my experience I’ve not been helped by the people who witness the incidents.

I am hungry. The food here is not to my liking and even so, there are not many food options and the quantity is limited.  My host family always gives me what they have; however, it is limited. Pretty much what you have for lunch is what you will have for dinner. Sometimes, especially on Sunday, there is no dinner. Usually there is a late lunch around 3pm or so and that is it. So much salt in the food and the food is fried in grease and oil. Sometimes I wake up at night with my stomach talking to me; that is, growling and making gurgle (sp?)  sounds. I think at times that I have an entity in my body trying to get out. I do have supplemental food, like pretzels, oatmeal and tuna fish that I order from Amazon; however, even that is getting old. There is really no place here in Sagarejo to get food other than Georgian type food. The last time I brought food home (from Tbilisi) and placed it in the refrigerator to eat the next day; I was surprised to learn that someone had eaten it. No one knew who did it; but the bottom line was that it was gone.  I know this sounds petty; but, the thought of “real” food disappearing was so upsetting to me. I was so looking forward to eating something good.  As I am reading my novels and they talk about food they are eating; I am sad. I just don’t want to do much of anything while all I can think about is eating and being satisfied with food occasionally.  I cannot make myself food without offering it to the entire family and in order to do that would cost me lots of money. Maybe if I lived on my own it would be different?

Antakya

·         Antakya is the seat of the Hatay Province in southern Turkey. In ancient times, Antakya was known as Antioch and was for centuries one of the largest cities in the Roman empire and was an influential early center of Christianity; see Antioch. Today's Antakya is overwhelmingly Islamic in religion. It has a population of about a quarter 

I recently found out that there is a volunteer program that happens over the summer in Turkey. It is for a 2-week period during July. The location is Antakya and I was so excited to read that is was formerly known as Antioch. Wow, this would be excellent; however, the dates of the program won’t work for me. I will be traveling at the end of June and early July (more or that as time gets closer) – and I won’t be back in time. Very disappointed; however, I will make sure that I put this on my 2016 calendar.

I had a GREAT weekend in Tbilisi recently. I attended the (ETAG) English Teachers Association of Georgia (link below) – a conference that was held at the International Black Sea University (link below). What a terrific day it was. I met lots of teachers, both teaching at the University level as well as the High school level. Sat in on many workshops and came away with lots of new materials that will hopefully inspire and motivate my students to seeking education in a new way.

 http://www.etag.ge/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Black_Sea_University

In addition, it was my first experience renting an apartment in Tbilisi. A friend and I reserved an apartment from Friday evening until Sunday Afternoon. It was in the “Marjanishvili” section of the city. It was a lot cheaper than staying at a hotel and in addition we had a washing machine to catch up on laundry. It was so convenient and very near a metro stop. We didn’t have much time to explore the area; as we didn’t arrive until late on Friday and we were at the conference all day on Saturday. It is definitely something I would do again. 

http://www.airbnb.com

The Education East teachers (that is me) had a conference this past week. The hotel was fabulous. We had terrific HOT water for showers – I could live in the shower. In four days time, I took six showers….it was wonderful. We also had HEAT (and lots of it) and a warm room to take a shower in.  In addition, the BEDS were awesome and the bedding (pillows and blankets) were to die for. I would have LOVED to pack the blanket and take it with me; but, that is not in keeping with the values of a Peace Corps Volunteer J. The meeting topic was about Project Management and Design. I’ve done a lot of work in the area; however, we did have our Georgian Counter-parts along for the conference. This topic was a foreign language to my counter-part and I am sure for other Georgian Teachers. The terminology was unknown to them; however, the presenters of the materials did a great job in explaining the various components of designing a project and the management of it. We spent all day (from 9am – 5pm) working  - with coffee breaks and lunch in-between.

The only real down side to the conference was the food.  Breakfast was a buffet, so we had lots of choices and unlimited re-fills. Truly, it was the best meal of the day. Now, you have read many times in my blog about my feelings on Georgian foods so you will understand how disappointed I was in the food at the hotel. Lunch and dinner were served family style and 90% of what was served (although well prepared) was Georgian food. The supply was limited, so if you didn’t sit down as soon as everyone else did, well you were out of luck to get a portion of what was served. The salad, well I could have eaten the bowl of salad by myself. When I asked if we could have a refill the hotel staff told me that I could have more salad if I paid for it. We had french fries and for five people, I bet there was only about 30-35 french fries (shoe string type) on the plate. Of course, there was lots of bread and cheese, fish with lots of bones, etc. One time there were mushrooms….we all dived into the vegetable as it was in short supply. It was dismal, in my opinion. No desert only a plate of whole apples, oranges and a kewee (sp?). I left hungry and disappointed, but I filled up on breakfast – and carried a hardboiled egg and the cheese that is individually wrapped  with me to supplement lunch and dinner.

The hotel was beautiful. It had a 9-hole golf course and a big swimming pool that of course, because it is winter, we could not use. It was snowing off and on during the conference, so it was very beautiful to watch the snow on the trees. The rooms were very warm and we even had a sofa in our room (so we didn’t have to sit on the beds to watch TV).

http://kachreti.ambasadori.ge/en/

Here is a piece of completely useless information that I thought you would enjoy. Did you know that you CANNOT buy chewing gum in Singapore? This is the type of information that is listed in the textbooks that the teachers of English use to teach Georgian students.

March 3^rd is a BIG holiday here in Georgia. I’m told that EVERYTHING is closed (Schools, Yeah! -  banks, stores, etc.) . Last year I totally forgot about Mother’s Day in the States, so it seems I am going to celebrate at least twice this year. I’ve asked if anything special is done and I understand that families celebrate in their own way. In addition, International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8^th. Also a big day here; however, it falls on a Sunday. As a result, since it is NOT a school day, we don’t get a day off L

March 3

Mother's Day

დედის დღე

Dedis dghe

March 8

International Women's Day

ქალთა საერთაშორისო დღე

Kalta saertashoriso dghe

Today during class, that is February 25^th, the Director came into the room and was looking very somber. All the students stood at attention and listened as she spoke (of course in Georgian). I didn’t understand; however, my cooperating teacher told me after that we were honoring a moment of silence to remember the events that are listed below.

1921 Republic of Georgia Bolshevistic Armies Friday, 25th February, 1921 : On this day, it was reported that the capital of the Republic of Georgia was being seized by Bolshevistic (Russian) armies. The Greeks were headed to this location to pick up the Greek Merchants and Greek refugees now there. The Turkish army had voted to remain neutral. The capture of Georgia by Soviet Russian armies was in essence signified the near end of the Independence of the Republic of Georgia. This country did again regain their independence from the Soviet Union as of 1991 (declared on April 9, finalized on December 25th). Independence Day of Georgia is still celebrated on May 26th, however. This was the date of the original breaking away from Russia which occurred in 1918. 

I want to leave you with some news about the dog situation.

 First, I found myself a BIG/FAT STICK. I do plan to take a picture and post at some point; but, in the meantime know that I (hopefully) have some measure of protection. The stick is big and fat. It is not that long as I need to carry it with me in my back pack. It does not completely fit; however, it’s a small price to pay to allow me to feel somewhat protected.  

The stick is long enough, I think, for me to ram it down the dog’s throat and that is what I intend to do. I am more prepared now than ever to deal with this. I’ve had so much advice from Georgian people on how to deal with this. One suggestion was that while the dog was threatening me I should make friends with it and (carry food) so that I could feed it. Well, that is not going to happen.

My host family told me that the family who owned the dog that attacked me has gotten rid of the dog (or something to that effect). It is a challenge with the language barrier; but, I will investigate further. In the meantime, until I am certain, the stick stays with me. My family, the teachers and everyone who has seen my sticks just giggles or laughs. Honestly, I don’t really care what anyone thinks about the stick. I’ve learned from experience that I better make sure that I do everything and anything I can to protect myself as my experience here is that the folks who have watched my interactions with dogs are not fast in coming to help.

I am very sorry for these dogs here in Georgia. They are starving and often times limping (hurt by getting hit with by cars or with rocks). It is not the dogs fault, I realize that. However, I don’t want to end up hurt.

Ok, I have so much more to write but I think you may be tired of reading J.  The month of March is right around the corner so hopefully, maybe, the worst of the winter is over.

Best, Catherine Lawrence, G14

PeaceCorps Volunteer

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

Blog, February 8^th, 2015

Hello, My Faithful Readers

I have added three photographs at the end. The first is a box of Dunkin Donuts that I purchased here in Tbilisi (you will read more about this in the blog). The second is me outside the hotel in Istanbul and before my acrobatic act and the hurt rib. The third is a photo of some of the teachers that I work with in Sagarejo. 

I have listed the link to my recent article (the 4^th in the series) written and published in OpEdNews (below link) about my “rib” experience in Istanbul.

 http://www.opednews.com/author/author500312.html

I’ve been recovering from my linear fracture of my 9^th rib. I have been off duty (medical) since January 15^th. As the 15^th was the first day back from holiday break. The doctors had a couple of concerns as my rib was healing. The first was that I should NOT carry anything. As I usually carry books and other items when I spend the day in school, it was not wise to attend. The second reason is that the doctors didn’t want me to catch a cold being in the school. Because the school has limited heat, they felt that cold rooms would not be helpful to a healing rib. In addition, I wanted to be careful not to catch a cold as coughing would not be helpful to healing the rib. So, I’ve had a wonderful rest. I have been at home with my host family.

I will be x-rayed anywhere from 4-6 week after the event (which was January 7^th), so probably around mid to the end of February for final medical clearance. In the meantime, I can go back to teaching if I am feeling better (and I do). I will take it easy and see how it goes. If I feel that I am pushing it then can adjust as I go along. I know I will regret saying this but I am getting a little “what do I do with myself” being a home for such a long period of time. I have been reading and resting and also working on my Georgian.  It has been wonderful. I’ve heard that the children in the school keep asking for me. That is so sweet of them.

Last November I requested books from an organization in Darien, CT. What a great organization. As a Peace Corps Volunteer I had to provide information as to the type of books and grade levels I was targeting. When approved my school would receive twenty-five pounds of books. Well, last week the books arrived. You would have thought it was Christmas here in Sagarejo. The teachers could not wait to open the box. All kinds of materials like National Geographic magazines for children, fiction, science book, etc. They all looked brand new. The teachers were “oozing and aaahhing” and pulling the books from the box. Now most of the teachers cannot read English; however, they were excited none-the-less.  Here is the link in the event that you want to check them out!

http://www.darienbookaid.org/

Soup here in Georgia is a big staple of the diet. My host mother makes a couple of different kinds of soup. For example, red beet soup or borscht; chicken soup and some kind of soup that I have no clue about. They are all good; but, they are very thin. Most have potatoes, carrots and some kind of parsley. A few have noodles but not in abundance. Sometimes they are somewhat flavorful and at other times it tastes like flavored water. I like the potatoes and carrots but a bowl of soup may contain a half a potato and maybe one quarter of a carrot stick. I don’t know why they don’t jam pack the soup with vegetables. I have given my host family some of the Lipton soup mixes to add into the broth; but, it never makes it into the soup. Oh, well – the soup is hot and I do get some potatoes. I understand from other PVC’s that this is the way other families also make their soups. Maybe it’s a practice from back in the day when vegetables were not abundant.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borscht

Another concern about food has been resolved now that winter is here. I am concerned that left over food is not refrigerated. This is especially worrisome during the summer; however, in winter (since the kitchen and the storage rooms are not heated) this is not now an issue. The kitchen and storage room are probably colder than a refrigerator. They have the remains of the pig , Wilber (remember from Christmas) hanging on hooks from the ceiling. I don’t know how they preserve the food; but, I am thinking they use salt. The reason being is that I had a piece of pork recently that was so salty that I felt I was eating a “salt lick.” I don’t want to waste food; but, I just could not eat it. The family does not say anything when I leave food on my plate; but, eating salt is just something I cannot do.

Which leads me to wonder why the Georgian people cannot see the connection between eating so much salt (and sugar) with their blood pressure? I have written about this previous as most households (and also the teacher’s room in school) have a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. Routinely they take each their own BP or they take the BP of another teacher. I think I want to have my BP taken by the Peace Corps doctors at some point.

I just know that you all want to know what is happening with my hair!

Well, I won’t keep you in suspense because I’ve made a decision J. I am letting my hair grow. Now, you must understand that I have not have LONG hair for maybe forty (yes, that is 40 years). My hair has always been short. So, maybe I want to fit in better as the majority of women have long hair here in Georgia (NOT REALLY); or maybe it’s the 5Gel haircut (that translates to maybe $2.50 USD). The hair cut is nice when it is first done; however, when it is growing in – well, it is terrible. In any event, I have decided to see how I feel and look with long hair. Now, I know I will never get it as long as most of the women here; but, for the first time in decades I can feel hair on my neck. When I look in the mirror I sometimes don’t recognize the person looking back at me. My hair, coupled with the weight loss (now at a total of 65 pounds); well, it is disconcerting! I was able to get a couple of pair of pants at the FREE BOX at the Peace Corps Office – so that is a good thing.

So, getting back to the saga of my hair! I will continue to let it grow until I am sure it will get on my nerves. Of course now that it is winter it feels good to have hair; however, we shall see what happens with the 90’sF and 100’sF degree heat comes along.

We are going to attend another training program at the end of February. This training is PDM (Project Design and Management). I will be attending with one of my counter-parts; that is, one of the English teachers that I work with on a daily basis. We will be able to find ways to fund project through grants and also become knowledgeable in how to write the grants. Goal setting and brainstorming as to how best to use any money that we would obtain is on the agenda. This sound like a lot of fun!

We will also be doing this at a hotel – yippee!!! We make camp (so-to-speak) at the Ambassador Hotel in the village of Kachreti. We will be there for four nights. We will have LOTS of showers, real bathrooms, FOOD (3-meals a day) and heat. We cannot wait. I understand that they also have a snack bar….Heaven!!!! I’ve listed the below link in case you want to check it out! More detail to come once I return.

http://www.kachreti.ambasadori.ge/en/

One of the English Teachers gifted me a book entitled’ The Knight in the Panther’s Skin.”  It is a very famous book by a very famous author – Shota Rustaveli. It is so old and so beautiful. I was so touched by the generosity of this teacher. It was translated from Georgian into English by Venera Urushadze. It is a poem that I hope to read; however, I don’t think it is going to be an easy read. I am not much for poetry (I don’t understand poetry); but, I must give this a chance. It is a hard-back covered book that has 1,582 stanza’s (I think they are called stanza’s). I will update you as I make my way through.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shota_Rustaveli

In early March 2015 I am going to be tested again as to my Georgian language level. I think that I will go up one level; however, I don’t think I am at the level that the PC requires. I must note that I have felt a shift in my language skills. I find that I do speak more Georgian now than I ever did. So much more makes sense and since I am speaking more I feel a little more confident in speaking. I am sure this will continue as time goes forward. I will let you know once my test is complete and what the outcome was.

I want to give you some of what I’ve discovered about the town that I am living in. Sagarejo, the settlement, was first mentioned in the written record in the 11^th century under the name of “Tvali”. This literally means “An Eye.” It acquired town status in 1962. According to the 2002 census, Sagarejo has a population of 12,600 and it is 36 miles (58K) east of the Georgian capital of Tbilisi. I will do more research, but for now that is what I know.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sagarejo

I have noticed over and over how late my host family goes to bed. Sometimes it is as late at 1:00am, as I can hear people talking below me (the pechi room is below my room) when I get up to go the bathroom. I do not know how they can function all day with so little sleep. I see in the classroom that so many students sleep during class time. Of course, I cannot know this but I think many families stay up as late as my family. It is very discouraging teaching to students who are sleeping. No one seems to think this is odd behavior. The teachers just let the children continue sleeping and then when the bell rings they go to their next class.

And speaking of FOOD that is not really good for you…. Dunkin Donuts has arrived in Georgia. Honestly, at times I don’t feel like I am living in Eastern Europe. On my way back from training at the Bazaliti Lake Hotel we stopped at one of the NEW Dunkin Donuts (there are now 2 stores here) for donuts and coffee. It was very strange for me to be a store that looks much like what exists in America! I was overwhelmed. I could not make a decision as to “what” kind of donut I wanted, so, I initially ordered coffee. Ah, as I remembered – it was delicious. I could have sat in the store and just drank coffee all day. I did finally get a donut. I thought it was filled with cream; however, it had a lemon filling. I was disappointed; but, it was still good. At the moment, they don’t have cream donuts (my favorite) – but, hopefully that will come with time. They do sell the pound package of coffee (hazelnut and vanilla); but, I don’t have a drip coffee maker so (at the moment) I have to pass on that.

At the back of the Dunkin Donuts Shop there is a WENDY’s!  Burgers and Donuts is the same building – yummy. I think maybe Georgia is importing all the bad eating habits of the good old USA; but then, it is all sooooo GOOD! 

https://www.facebook.com/dunkindonutsgeo

Water filter….I am always kind-of sick to my stomach when I see just how much sediment accumulates in my water filer. I clean the filter, usually every couple of weeks and yet, so much sediment falls to the bottom of the filter. I guess that is a good thing as since it is on the bottom of the filter than it is not in my water bottle; but, yuck! I often just buy bottled water to make sure that my system gets a dose of really filtered water (at least I hope so).

I often have terrible bouts of diarrhea and I wonder if it is the food, the water or maybe just my system not being used to all the changes. I had an experience recently (not for the faint of heart here, my faithful readers); however, in keeping with my wanting to write a “real” blog I must share this with you. Recently as I was getting ready to board the metro my stomach was giving me signals that I needed to find a toilet (I have stopped referring to it as a bathroom). In any event, I did find one outside the metro stop. Of course, it was a porcelain squat toilet but it was not that bad.  My problem with the squat toilet is that I just cannot squat low enough, so, the capturing process (if you know what I mean) does not all find its way into the porcelain (I can hear you groaning now!).  I tried my best with what I had to clean up; but, it was not great. I was embarrassed and the attendant was angry; but, what can I do. This is life for me in Georgia. It is not like finding a western toilet. I wonder if I am the only person having this difficulty. Even with the weight loss my body just won’t go that low….I apologize if this is way more information than you need – but, living life on a daily basis dictates experiences, I imagine,  we all have but no one talks about.

A memory that totally caught me by surprise was the appearance of a “Huckster” here in Sagarejo. I have not thought about this is many decades; but, hearing and seeing this unfold on the road here in Sagarejo has brought back so many memories. During my time here I’ve been hearing beeping/horn noises made by a car and also a man hollering some words in Georgian. I never gave it much thought, until one day as I was walking home on the mountain I saw the Huckster. He had the trunk of his car open and inside was lots of fruits and vegetables. He stopped many times along the road as people came out of their houses to buy items. This so reminded me of the same kind of scene growing up in South Philadelphia. We would hear the shouts of the Huckster and run out to the truck. We could buy all kinds of fruits and vegetables.  This all made a lot of sense as here in Sagarejo as well as growing up in South Philadelphia not many people had cars, so it was hard to get to the market to buy (and carry home) the items. So, if you can’t go to the mountain then the mountain comes to you. That is exactly what the huckster does. What a great memory to revisit again!

Huckster | Define Huckster at Dictionary.com

dictionary.reference.com/browse/huckster

a retailer of small articles, especially a peddler of fruits and vegetables; hawker.

I will close for now and write again at the end of February so I give you all the news from the hotel! Also, I read on the internet that Sagarejo is probably going to have some snow next week. I sure hope not; but then, it is February.

All the Best, My Faithful Readers,

Catherine Lawrence, G14

Peace Corps Volunteer – February 8^th, 2015

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