tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52126393371445983882024-03-13T11:26:36.972-04:00My Peace Corps ICT ExperienceA Chronicle of an Information and Communication Technology Peace Corps Volunteer in BotswanaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-76369449662079510282013-10-19T02:45:00.002-04:002013-10-19T02:47:49.649-04:00Check out my website: www.ihudiyaogburu.comD<span id="goog_210299307"></span><span id="goog_210299308"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>ear Family and Friends!<br />
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I just wanted to let you know that I haven't stopped blogging. In fact, I am blogging more then ever. I recently finished my website and I am currently using its blogging tools to share my adventures. My new website has several new sections. Check it out today!<br />
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<a href="http://ihudiyaogburu.com/">www.ihudiyaogburu.com/</a><br />
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See you on that side,<br />
FindaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-20648533667726871302013-02-27T12:01:00.000-05:002013-02-27T12:01:00.323-05:00The Day I Met an Orphan<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26Ky_KQ170g/USuOqsdgybI/AAAAAAAAAds/9utfzk-Rx2A/s1600/DSC05649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26Ky_KQ170g/USuOqsdgybI/AAAAAAAAAds/9utfzk-Rx2A/s320/DSC05649.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I didn't know she was an orphan the day I met her. We were both playing with puppies in my friend's yard. Her clothes were dirty, but after living here for several months, I only suspected it was because it was from playing. I was only able to get her name due to my weak Setswana skills at that time. I knew where she lived and that it was a shanty, but there were several family members that lived with her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It only occurred to me that she was an orphan once I saw her at the school for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). It also didn't hit me until she didn't have food for snack time. The teacher asked the student beside her to share her snack. It hit even harder, when I noticed how she made sure to eat all of her lunch, and even ate some of the left overs of other students.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Apparently there are over 75 orphans and vulnerable children in my village. The preschool that I volunteer at can only take 32 due to laws and regulations. It's not like these children wander the streets at night. They have extended family who take care of them, but often not in the best ways that a parent can take care of their own child. I knew there are orphans in my village, but it really hit home when I saw her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The only thing I thought about as I walked home was how can I help her and others who are similar situations. I currently help out at the OVC Pre-School, and it encourages me that my community has this resource. Often OVC's start behind in their classes, and have to deal with additional emotional issues that you would hope no child doesn't have to face. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am currently working on a Wordpress website for the school. I will post about it once it is finished, and when I do, won't you have a look :D. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-54862733925398214102013-01-21T12:10:00.000-05:002013-01-21T12:10:00.159-05:00Things to Consider when Developing an Application for a Developing or Middle Income Country<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On December 1, Random Hacks of Kindness in collaboration with the Peace Corps held an event called "Peace Corps Innovation Challenge." Volunteers from around the world submitted ideas and concepts that they felt could improve the lives of people in their community or other volunteers. Ideas and concepts were submitted prior to the event and reviewed by Peace Corps Staff, NGO's, current volunteers, returned volunteers, and technical experts. The best ideas and concepts were submitted to members of Random Hacks of Kindness in order for them to develop the ideas during a hackathon on December 1. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My alma mater, Rochester Institute of Technology, participated in the event. The event was well received and was attended by <span style="background-color: white;">Sean Herron, a member of NASA’s Open Government team, and </span><span style="background-color: white;">Rob Bishop, a developer with the Raspberry Pi Foundation</span> . During December 1, which is also World AIDS Day, I live tweeted some tips to consider when developing an application for third world or middle income countries. I hope those who saw the tips found them helpful. I have listed them below for future programmers:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Things to Consider when Developing an Application for a Developing or Middle Income Country</b></span></h2>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If your creating an app that stores a lot of data. Make sure it saves often. Electricity may be an issue</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Internet Speeds vary within countries. Make sure your app can run with little to no Internet</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember your users and make sure your app is user friendly</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Please consider that getting access to a phone may be easier then a computer.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;">If your creating an app for a global audience please consider people with disabilities</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;">Note: Section 508 is a good reference concerning Tip 5</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Good Documentation can be just as important then the app itself</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.5px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make sure English is a national language in that country. If not consider translating some of the texts or providing that option</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.5px;">Learn more about the Peace Corps Innovation Challenge at: http://innovationchallenge.peacecorps.gov/</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 17.5px;">Happy Hacking :D</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-78464626872947447652012-10-29T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-29T06:00:05.506-04:00How to Improve Your Speed and Bandwidth on Slow Internet Part 1:Hey Everyone,<br />
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Here are some tips I have learned concerning improving my internet experience on slow internet. These tips are specifically geared towards my fellow volunteers around the world :D<br />
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<strong>Tip #1: Utilize mobile sites instead of the regular website when using the internet on a computer</strong><br />
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Example Mobile Sites:<br />
Social Media:<br />
- Facebook: <a href="https://m.facebook.com/?refid=17">https://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>m.facebook.<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>com/</a><br />
- Twitter: <a href="http://m.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmobile.twitter.com%2F&h=oAQEWOD_B&s=1" target="_blank">https://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>mobile.twit<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ter.com/</a><br />
Email:<br />
- Google: <a href="http://m.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmail.google.com%2Fmail%2Fx%2F&h=MAQFkHtIN&s=1" target="_blank">https://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>mail.google<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>.com/mail/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>x/</a><br />
- Yahoo: m.yahoo.co<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>m/mail<br />
- Hotmail: <a href="http://m.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmid.live.com%2F&h=xAQHvkQeq&s=1" target="_blank">https://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>mid.live.co<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>m/</a><br />
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<strong>Tip #2: Disable Images in your Browser</strong><br />
Photo's can use up a significan<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>t amount of data. Many websites utilize images for their icons, background<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>s, etc. While images can add to your overall web browsing experience<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>,
I would recommend disabling your images initially in your browser, and
turning back on the option when you REALLY want to see the photo.<br />
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Firefox:<br />
Go to Tools->Opt<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ions<br />
Click on the Content Tab<br />
Click on Load Images to remove the check mark<br />
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Internet Explorer:<br />
Go to Tools->Int<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ernet Options<br />
Select the Advance Tab<br />
Scroll down to the Multimedia<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span> Section<br />
Click on Show pictures to remove the check mark<br />
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**Check out the web on how to disable images for other browsers.*<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>*<br />
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<strong>Tip #3: Download a Chat Client/Instant Messenger</strong><br />
<strong> </strong> I love speaking to family and friends back home and downloading a chat client/instant messenger has made performing this task very simple. Though downloading a chat client can utilize a bit of your data plan, it is worth it. After installing a chat client, you no longer have to worry about using your bandwidth to download images, or unnecessary buttons, etc. Your chat client simply allows you to long into your specific chat server and listens for new instant messages, in addition to sending your instant messages.<br />
Listed below are some awesome chat clients/instant messengers.:<br />
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Chat clients that allow you to connect to several chat servers at a time:<br />
<span class="gl">Pidgin: </span><cite><a href="http://www.pidgin.im/">www.<b>pidgin</b>.im/</a></cite><br />
Digsby: <cite><a href="http://www.digsby.com/">www.<b>digsby</b>.com/</a></cite> <br />
Trillian: <cite><a href="http://www.trillian.im/">www.trillian.<b>im</b>/</a></cite><span class="gl"> </span><br />
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<span class="gl">Company-specific chat clients, that may or may not have the ability to connect to other chat servers:</span><br />
Google Chat: <cite><a href="http://talk.google.com/"><b>talk</b>.<b>google</b>.com/</a></cite><span class="gl"> </span><br />
<b>Windows Live Messenger</b> (formerly named <b>MSN Messenger</b>): <a href="http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-live/essentials-home">http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-live/essentials-home</a><br />
<span class="gl">Yahoo Messenger: </span> <cite><a href="http://messenger.yahoo.com/"><b>messenger</b>.<b>yahoo</b>.com/</a></cite><br />
<cite></cite><br />
<cite>Here is a helpful wikipedia page that compares some chat clients: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_instant_messaging_clients">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_instant_messaging_clients</a> </cite><br />
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<cite> </cite><strong>Tip #4: Select the HTML Option of a website, if it is available</strong><br />
<strong> </strong>If a website provides an HTML Option, please use it. While there are so many awesome features when PHP, Javascript, and other awesome programming languages are utilized, sometimes utilizing simple HTML is all we need to get the job done. <br />
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<strong>Stay Tuned for more helpful Tips </strong><span class="gl"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-49797434548552954532012-09-15T09:21:00.001-04:002012-09-15T09:21:53.688-04:00Happy Anniversary to Bots 11 and Me<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
I remember the night before heading to Philadelphia. I was so nervous. My mom and I were packing, and arguing about what things I could pack and could not. I had to leave most of my books home and a picture frame that I wanted to put in my house. We finally finished at 6am, and by 9am I was rushing to CVS to find one or two little items that I needed.<br /><br />This day was finally here, I was going to be a Peace Corps Volunteer. I was leaving my <br />family, friends, and a pet at home and going to a place of uncertainty. Whenever I thought about my life in Botswana, all I could see was black. I was fine with not assuming my living circumstance as friends who were RPCV's always advised me to not assume anything, and to embrace this moment. <br /><br />As I sit here on a beautiful Saturday morning, I can surely say I have embraced this moment. The many emotions I have felt, my highs and lows, and the wonderful adventures. A year has taught me a lot about myself, and my wonderful community. I am proud to say I have another year to spend with this wonderful community, but another part of me is anxious and scared. There is still so much to do, and can I really do it all in a year? <br /><br />In another year I will be making the courageous step of returning home. I truly am saddened at the thought of leaving my new friends and family. This journey I have been on has taught me that I am adaptable, and sometimes the most precious and beautiful moments are in fact being in the moment. I live a very basic life, but yet I am still content. I am happy to be living my dream.<br /><br />I do miss my family and friends back at home, but I am proud to say that I know they will always be there for me. That simple thought sustains me. <br /><br />In some crazy, ridiculous way, I know all things will work out.</div>
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Happy One Anniversary!!!!</div>
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-Finda<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-61003956528889430472012-07-11T11:55:00.000-04:002012-07-11T11:55:00.410-04:00My first care package<br />
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While several of the volunteers have gotten care packages throughout their service and training, I have officially received my first care package about 10 months into my service. I am so excited about this first care package that I felt it was blog worthy material. So bear with me :D</div>
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(Thinks back...)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ3_ebWa8UfSH7Xuy7N2XPn1tXiQlMrN5pw4OyQpS-xtUaWxSkWLA1LgH9n80B6jY8SgaV_Hu6IsMRb7Lr3JNZPqyUhN24gK7yKLMn7SsUBdiSF4dgHY8X6v_pCZPATxy-IpUG1YyeaA0/s1600/DSC043431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ3_ebWa8UfSH7Xuy7N2XPn1tXiQlMrN5pw4OyQpS-xtUaWxSkWLA1LgH9n80B6jY8SgaV_Hu6IsMRb7Lr3JNZPqyUhN24gK7yKLMn7SsUBdiSF4dgHY8X6v_pCZPATxy-IpUG1YyeaA0/s320/DSC043431.jpg" width="240" /></a>It was a sunny day on July 5, 2012. I think it was about 8am when I had just arrived in the office when one of my coworkers said I had a package. I was shocked and couldn't believe it. "I have a package...this can't be true," I remarked to myself, but two seconds later my coworker handed me a package. After seeing the package, I jumped for joy. Usually, I receive monthly mail from Peace Corps, but today, I received a package all the way from America. I was so ecstatic, I was tempted to hang the packaging up in my house. "My very first package," I said to myself. I examined the packaging. "Hmmm, snacks, I wonder what kind," I said as I read the postage slip. I slowly opened the package and carefully pulled the contents out. I received a letter and some snacks from my dear friend Dupe!</div>
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Dupe your so awesome. Thank you very much for being the first to send me a care package.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo of a very happy Finda </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Much love,</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">-Finda</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-34846686544974109272012-06-19T11:57:00.000-04:002012-06-19T11:57:00.565-04:00June 15 - TeachAIDS Day<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
<span style="font-size: small;">This past Friday was TeachAIDS Day in Botswana. TeachAIDS is an interactive flash animation that teaches kids about HIV/AIDS. It is a non-profit organization that produces HIV/AIDS related material that utilizes local norms and analogies. I especially enjoy knowing that this tool utilized local celebrity voices for the characters in the video. The tool also went as far as ensuring characters accurately reflected the Batswana (the people of Botswana) in terms of looks and mannerisms. On an overall, It is a great tool and I have been using it since we were presented the tool during our In-Service Training. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">On TeachAIDS Day we were all tasked with the goal of presenting TeachAIDS to the community. I collaborated with two volunteers to present TeachAIDS at a primary school, and to health workers in a nearby village. On an overall, the day went smoothly, we had all the necessary tools and resources (transportation, speakers, laptop, and projector) to present the tool in the community. Here are some photo's from that day:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijrK10XIZkgWhTqRAMCMbbKpFkctR7wj-g70Wwim-HA1XIX-89e5yFT1yxMRTDY6kG2vwdPHi9GhD2d1IJRY85RbPQXVZD706EjN_m32cCYKM9KDwMn3n746BdBbSP8y0waJQbHpUs8j4/s1600/DSC04278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijrK10XIZkgWhTqRAMCMbbKpFkctR7wj-g70Wwim-HA1XIX-89e5yFT1yxMRTDY6kG2vwdPHi9GhD2d1IJRY85RbPQXVZD706EjN_m32cCYKM9KDwMn3n746BdBbSP8y0waJQbHpUs8j4/s320/DSC04278.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mia introducing the video and the PCV Volunteers who came to visit</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids watching TeachAIDS in the school's cafeteria</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vb0s_5J6qk04yh7vL7MtZBds31xYTKyBdwqO2g8WkX8a9BWtjKYY7G_DAbOGRpmUjECtGLHtPa7XoiSqf5u6P9CzZ_V_vNYYHzU-uuCSR6itPeIPXERWgjB7QvGBRYF_dRyF8vfL8IA/s1600/DSC04275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vb0s_5J6qk04yh7vL7MtZBds31xYTKyBdwqO2g8WkX8a9BWtjKYY7G_DAbOGRpmUjECtGLHtPa7XoiSqf5u6P9CzZ_V_vNYYHzU-uuCSR6itPeIPXERWgjB7QvGBRYF_dRyF8vfL8IA/s320/DSC04275.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diana asking some discussion questions after the video</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Learn more about TeachAIDS at: <a href="http://teachaids.org/">www.teachaids.org</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Check out YouTube video clips of TeachAIDS at: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TeachAIDS">www.youtube.com/user/TeachAIDS</a> <cite></cite></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-59397037815538758872012-06-12T11:59:00.001-04:002012-06-12T11:59:00.251-04:00Losing a Friend - Early Terminating Volunteers<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
In September 2011, Bots 11 (Peace Corps 11th group of Volunteers) arrived in Botswana. Up until last month, my group had the acclaimed fame of having all 35 volunteers or 100% of us remaining in Botswana. Having everyone in a Peace Corps group remain in the country for their service is unusual. Usually, an average of 30% of the Volunteers that come to the country will leave at some point in time in their service. <br /><br />Losing a volunteer is a painful time for a group of Volunteers. With that in mind, losing our two Volunteers from our group has been a sad moment for my Bots 11 family. These fellow volunteers were a part of our support system during this Peace Corps adventure. This sad but familiar felling can be equated to having a friend or relative abruptly leave. <br /><br />Unfortunately, people leave the Peace Corps early for many reasons. As a Volunteer we sacrifice a lot to get here, and at the same time we leave many things behind. We leave our family and friends. Some of us leave our jobs or even sell our houses. Deciding to go back home can be an easy or hard decision (depending on the person). This decision can also be sometimes made for us. Peace Corps categorizes these reasons into four categories.<br /><br /><i><b>Resignation: </b></i><br />Resignation is when a Volunteer decides to discontinue their service. <br /><br /><i><b>Medical Separation: </b></i><br />Medical Separation can occur if a Volunteer has a medical condition that cannot be accommodated or resolved within the country<br /><br /><i><b>Administrative Separation:</b></i><br />A Volunteer can be Administratively Separated if he or she fails to follow the policies and regulations that in place for their safety and well-being. This decision is made by the Country Director.<br /><br /><i><b>Interrupted Service:</b></i><br />Interrupted Service can occur if the country or site the volunteer is located is in a circumstance that can not be amended. This decision is also made by the Country Director.<br /><br /><i><b>(Resource: http://www.peacecorpswiki.org/Early_Termination</b></i>)<br /><br />Leaving the country we are assigned to can mean leaving our host families, counterparts, and new friends. After establishing close relationships and partnerships the idea of leaving prior to a persons close of service date can be tough. Even though leaving can be tough, sometimes it can be the best decision.<br /><br />For our lost two Volunteers, please know that you are forever a Bots 11. We all admire you for making a decision that was right for you, but we do miss you. You both have positively impacted and touched all our lives. Thank you for the sweet memories.<br /><br />Farewell,<br />-Finda</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-26443815832546592012-06-10T05:06:00.000-04:002012-06-10T05:06:42.274-04:00Colder in Botswana<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVv500ngs_PrY1lR2hxxg6Uiv-pIIY3dm3SC5ZywAg8MrpJaSKyhd814h4aT_YFfsjgtV3vRLVRyGlPdkPBN2aECFuZjQwN8X0NC66GLFdIwlOhe1YI9LsxTquWt5RNdo0S8IbVS8wOc/s1600/geyser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVv500ngs_PrY1lR2hxxg6Uiv-pIIY3dm3SC5ZywAg8MrpJaSKyhd814h4aT_YFfsjgtV3vRLVRyGlPdkPBN2aECFuZjQwN8X0NC66GLFdIwlOhe1YI9LsxTquWt5RNdo0S8IbVS8wOc/s320/geyser.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This morning I woke up to hearing water leaking from my roof. Apparently,
my geyser broke that night, and I became the lucky resident with a leaky
roof. What is a geyser, you might ask? A geyser is similar to a water
heater. Water is either heated by sunlight or electricity at my house. It is located
on my roof. </span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" />
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Prior to today, I was living a great Posh Corps. Posh Corps is a term
used to describe Peace Corps Volunteers who have </span><u style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">some</u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> amenities that are
similar to people currently living in the United States. I have a two
bedroom house with indoor plumbing. What more could I ask for? Well
today I know that answer, hot water. There is nothing like taking a hot
shower or bath. Prior to coming to my site I was accustomed to heating
my water over the stove, and filling the tub or a bucket with half hot
water and half cold. It was not a very tedious task, but having a geyser
made things very simple.</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" />
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Gone are the days of little to no effort when preparing for a bath. I am very saddened by this fact as winter is already here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Cold in Botswana,</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> -Finda</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-69795187350181281412012-05-15T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-15T12:00:03.294-04:00Money can solve all problems, so we all should be rich<br />
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In America and Africa, I hear one thing in common. Apparently we are all limited by the money we have. We cannot do, we cannot help because we do not have enough.</div>
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That’s why I like Peace Corps. We are trained to work with community members to appreciate their accomplishments, to identify issues that can be fixed, and to train/capacity build them in areas they identify they need assistance.</div>
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<i>Commentary by Finda</i></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-76857983007261773412012-05-09T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-09T12:00:01.378-04:00Botswana Homemade Bread - A Taste of Botswana Food<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
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<i><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #4f81bd;"><span style="color: black;">Here is a recipe that I use almost every week to make homemade bread. Try it at home, and take photo's, and lastly comment below and let me know how it went. Diphaphata (Dee-pa-pat-ta) is very popular in Botswana because it tastes great. Happy cooking :D</span></span></span></i><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #4f81bd;"><i><span style="color: black;">-Finda </span></i></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: large;"><b>Diphaphata - </b></span><span class="SubtitleChar"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; text-transform: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Botswana Homemade Bread </span></b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Diphaphata is a great tasting bread that be eaten as hamburger bread to dinner roles. There are many creative ways to use this bread. Additionally, extra ingredients can be added to give Diphaphata a different taste, look, etc.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;">Ingredients:</span></span></span></h1>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4 cups of white or brown flour</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-small;">10g or 1 pack of yeast</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Salt</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sugar</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1.5 cups of warm water</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Directions:</span></span></span></h1>
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<span lang="EN-US">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Add flour, yeast, salt and/or sugar in a mixing bowl.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">a.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Note: Add enough salt and sugar to your personal preference</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Add warm water to your mixing bowl and mix ingredients into a dough </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Continue to add warm water until the dough is soft and without any bumps</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Let dough sit for 10 to 15 minutes in order to allow the yeast to raise the dough</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Separate dough into 8 to 12 round balls</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Pre-heat oven to 250 degrees</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Lightly grease your baking pan and place dough balls onto the pan</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Bake the dough for 10 to 15 minutes or until the dough is lightly golden brown</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">9.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Serve with butter, jelly, tea or by itself</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-66138172380448054472012-05-08T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-08T12:00:01.418-04:00Food...how many of us eat it?<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
Coming from an African Family, and being first generation African American the food from Botswana has not drifted too far from my diet back in the states. Check out some of the awesome local dishes some of us volunteers get to experience:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Phaletšhe is pictured on the left, chicken is pictured at the top right, and morogo is pictured on the bottom right</td></tr>
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<b>Morogo (mo-row-ho)</b></div>
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Morogo
are leaves from beans that are cooked similar to spiniach. Tomatoes and
onions are normally added to the dish to provide additional flavour.</div>
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<b>Phaletšhe (pa-lay-she)</b></div>
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Phaletšhe
is pictured on the left in the photo above. It is made out of corn and tastes
similar to foo foo. Corn is the staple crop in Botswana, which
is similar to the United States. Unlike the United States, sugar is
still used in most products in Botswana</div>
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<b>Motogo(mo-toe-ho) </b></div>
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Motogo is porridge made out of sorghum. According to Wikipedia,<i> </i>sorgum is a genus of grass that is raised for grain. It can be found in countries with warm weather. Motogo reminds me of oatmeal, rice pap, or porridge made in the states.<i><b> </b></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(<cite>en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorghum)</cite></span></div>
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Kabu is pictures on the left,<br />
dithotse is pictured at the bottom right,<br />
manoko is pictured </td></tr>
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<b>Kabu (Ka-bu)</b></div>
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Kabu is dried corn. It is cooked than air dried in the sun.</div>
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<b>Dithotse (dee-clo-say)</b></div>
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Dithotse are dried and salted watermelon seeds. They remind me of sunflower seeds.</div>
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<b>Manoko (ma-no-ko)</b></div>
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Manoko are peanuts...enough said :D</div>
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<b>Dikogbe (di-kho-bey)</b></div>
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Dikogobe is a dish made from beans and sometimes kabu. The dish reminds me of cooked black eyed peas. In fact, sometimes black eyed peas are used to make this dish.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG6-n2Kg09ZAJw4gGZJUOkMvR6BC2BYJMFOX20P2Y2wvqaSD1cUXQ4bhDi9FWxBVflpuOcFwlOT0RgvzkgiYIiRyhXUzUcXKfnxCjY1G4kClgOXMxPnScOuvxUE8RkQAon50X6pL__c8/s1600/DSC04096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG6-n2Kg09ZAJw4gGZJUOkMvR6BC2BYJMFOX20P2Y2wvqaSD1cUXQ4bhDi9FWxBVflpuOcFwlOT0RgvzkgiYIiRyhXUzUcXKfnxCjY1G4kClgOXMxPnScOuvxUE8RkQAon50X6pL__c8/s200/DSC04096.JPG" width="150" /></a><b>Magwinya (Ma-gween-ya) aka Fat Cakes</b></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Fat cakes are like donuts. They are made out of dough, sugar, and yeast. They are an awesome dessert and taste great with soup.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-24509449139387162102012-05-04T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-04T12:00:04.799-04:00The Donkey Files<span id="goog_943452588"></span><span id="goog_943452589"></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Speaking of animals you have to chase out your yard, I would like to introduce exhibit A, the donkeys.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Unlike Eeyore on Winnie the Pooh, these donkey's (in simple terms) just don't care. Donkey pregnancy is rampant, and people rarely use their donkeys. With this in mind, they are free to roam wherever and whenever they want. Additionally, donkey meat is the lowest quality type of meat you could eat. So on my side of town they run things, and they know it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Example 1: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Unlike other animals, donkey's have somehow found out it is a fine or even jail time to kill another persons animal. They have decided with their new found knowledge to stand in the middle of the street, or to start crossing nonchalantly across the road. Yes sir, these donkey's are smart, and they look at us as if we are stupid.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Example 2:</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg25OmAFEsWVD6mKSNY21b_nPw0TcDJ9thQExbCqjXPMWPBDgAZlSiZiC2BmsW5QzGVKMpcicG8zMNu0Oma0MikV3d56WV8t5WXLjNuVrLw_OGPuxjO94v5rJygI_ADoDsUJUxw227eQc/s1600/DSC02816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg25OmAFEsWVD6mKSNY21b_nPw0TcDJ9thQExbCqjXPMWPBDgAZlSiZiC2BmsW5QzGVKMpcicG8zMNu0Oma0MikV3d56WV8t5WXLjNuVrLw_OGPuxjO94v5rJygI_ADoDsUJUxw227eQc/s320/DSC02816.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Why might you ask why I would need to chase donkey's out my yard. Well it's for two things. The first reason is that they like to eat grass and other shrubbery. While this is fine, donkey's also have no problem pooping where they eat. This is my first issue with having donkey's eat the grass in my yard. The second less obvious reason is that they will turn on your tap outside, crowd around the tap, and have a small party all night long. Once again they are aware they are doing wrong. How do I know? Well because when you wake up in the morning and see the remnants of the donkey party which include water running all night and tired donkeys they will quickly run outside the gate. Even though most donkeys will run, they are some donkey's (in simple terms) that just don't care, and will only leave your yard after chasing them out your yard. Outside your gate, these donkeys tend to look at you as if you did something wrong.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Oh Donkeys :/</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Finda</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-27615971940354310002012-05-03T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-03T12:00:00.518-04:00Who has baboon's hanging in her yard...this girl<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBKe8yo7K-FdHY7GJ4P89qL4GRpFsXHr66uyEO9XhsLBPIf_DxXjlZ3tjartfjBXQdfJrqCxOUWLViRhsS_MIBDPpiSi0_J6IHYo4hzfoYhrHArcBZJ2X3gjMP49jRBxAqS2ZCkgP-cFU/s1600/DSC03382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBKe8yo7K-FdHY7GJ4P89qL4GRpFsXHr66uyEO9XhsLBPIf_DxXjlZ3tjartfjBXQdfJrqCxOUWLViRhsS_MIBDPpiSi0_J6IHYo4hzfoYhrHArcBZJ2X3gjMP49jRBxAqS2ZCkgP-cFU/s320/DSC03382.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">So I didn't really believe it when I first heard it, but seeing baboon's in my yard the other day was unbelievable. I woke up early, expecting to have a regular Monday morning when I decided to looked outside the window. They were running as a pack, and I nearly panicked. "Oh my gosh" I said to myself and ran for my camera. I started to take pics from the safe distance of in my house. I then decided I wanted to see this with my own eyes. So I searched for my glasses, but first I wanted to tell someone. So I searched for my phone. In between searching for my phone and glasses, I asked myself, "Why am I not just experiencing this?" Who knows when I will see them again. They looked so cute, until they started jumping fences. Then I realized I had another animal who is a pest in my yard. As cute as baboons look far away, there is something scary about them when they are in your yard.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">- Finda</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-47855569270406780972012-05-01T12:00:00.000-04:002012-05-01T12:00:05.238-04:00A Highlight on music in Botswana<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br /> I don't have to go far to be reminded of America. By simply turning on the radio I can hear some of the most popular songs that are currently in the states. House music, Pop, Hip Hop are very popular in Botswana, but outside of House Music and the Top 100 I wanted to highlight four types of music that is also heard in Botswana.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><b> Kwasa Kwasa/Rumba:</b> Kwasa Kwasa and Rumba can be easily be identified here because the beat encourages people to dance with their hips. It has more guitars in the music. Normally when people dance at parties and even traditional dancing there is a focus on the feet. I find this to be an interesting observation because in some West African countries there is a focus on the hips, and in some East African countries there is a focus on the shoulders. Beyonce's music video "Girls" is a great example of a mixture of various different dance styles that have originated in Africa. Kwasa Kwasa/Rumba originated in Northern Sub-Sahara Countries.</span><br />
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/TMAhbztQ_hA/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TMAhbztQ_hA&fs=1&source=uds" />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br /><br /> Artist: Franco<br /> Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMAhbztQ_hA<br /> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDszY0cjoS8</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><b>Disco:</b> Disco has never left Botswana, and I strongly think it never will. There are many music classics in this genre. Evonne Chaka Chaka, a world renowned singer, can be heard on the radio.<br /> </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/k9lwA3sfWQ0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br /><br /> Artist: Evonne Chaka Chaka<br /> Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9lwA3sfWQ0</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><b>Kwaito:</b> Similar to Kwasa Kwasa, Kwaito music can encourages people to dance with their hip. It has more of a hip hop flavor when it comes to the sound. Check out some of Vee's music linked below to get a taste of Kwaito.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8Pw9f7-OE7Y?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br /><br /> Artist: Vee<br /> Link: <span id="goog_1666723906"></span>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Pw9f7-OE7Y<span id="goog_1666723907"></span><br /> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtGWHq6YydA</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><b>Traditional Music: </b>Traditional
Music is music unique to Botswana. It utilizes traditional instruments
but with modern technology Traditional Music can easily be mixed and
remixed to have a hip new flavour. Culture Spears is a popular
traditional music artist. Check out some of his video's below: </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/hvHj-x9e8XM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">Artist: Culture Spears<br /> Link:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvHj-x9e8XM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmc9gajd_n4</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"> <br />
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-45676936011538823512012-04-09T12:00:00.001-04:002012-04-09T12:00:06.473-04:00IST - Overview<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I have been in the country for officially 7 months (Victory Leap :D). In late January, my fellow volunteers and I attended our In-Service Training. Prior to these two weeks most of us were in our communities learning as much as possible in order to understand the issues and opportunities our communities currently face. Our training was held at a hotel, and I must admit hotel amenities were a wonderful get away experience for all of us.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Workshops were held each day to provide an opportunity for us to learn about each other’s site, collaborate, learn about current services offered in Botswana, and learn new skills (Strategic Planning and Project Management and Design).</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Leaving IST has made me excited and a bit fearful of what lies ahead. Surprisingly, I remember having this same feeling when I graduated high school. There are many choices/opportunities that I have today and for my remainder of my time here. For example, I have the choice to be my best, or the choice to be lazy; the choice to live out of my new comforts or the choice to grow as a person. One thing is for sure, I like my choices :D</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">-Finda</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-49866506162432089752012-03-22T11:59:00.011-04:002012-03-22T11:59:00.708-04:00Things I fail to admit that I like to do since I arrived here in Botswana<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have gained some new and restarted some old hobbies since I have been in Botswana. I thought I share with you some of those hobbies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">M<b>aking Preparations for Having a Chicken</b> - For some odd reason I feel I will not get as attached to a chicken as I would a dog or cat. Yet, I have made a bed for my chicken. Thought of names for the girl and guy, and even talked about getting one with close friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Update: I was able to successfully buy a chicken last week (March 16, 2012). Her name was Chicken Patty. Unfortunately, I am unable to find her :(</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Making Yogurt </b>- Yeah I said it! Somehow I am infatuated with trying to make yogurt with the right consistency as the ones we buy in the store. I love that I am getting closer</span> <br />
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<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Working Out</b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> - Ok, maybe just dancing around my house in cute clothes is what I consider working out. I enjoy watching Zumba on my laptop, and I have even mastered jumping rope in my living room.</span> <span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHzysehoFphK7lV8BJHy_ltkH-ZM91_RI6rpUrJ_hL3zedQbGNXbWmq5fDdwFfHZXGRVd25Qw_Wshpi6xwpoF-_-Hp12JF8aPXLxAqtuJtO97rm6c0tNArrv-pUeJLfr1RBLOPcOHXUQ/s1600/DSC03654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHzysehoFphK7lV8BJHy_ltkH-ZM91_RI6rpUrJ_hL3zedQbGNXbWmq5fDdwFfHZXGRVd25Qw_Wshpi6xwpoF-_-Hp12JF8aPXLxAqtuJtO97rm6c0tNArrv-pUeJLfr1RBLOPcOHXUQ/s200/DSC03654.JPG" width="150" /></a><b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Drawing</b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> - I always hated coloring, but luckily I have a sweet neighbor who color's all the pictures I draw. So I enjoy drawing for her. Sometimes I even allow her and her friends to provide me with requests.</span> <span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All and all, I have no issue living by myself. My biggest fear here is actually meeting people since I have to force myself to use Setswana. Luckily, I am an outdoor person, so it is a matter of just pushing myself to do it.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-36935581522400338162012-03-07T12:00:00.004-05:002012-03-07T12:00:09.531-05:00Beauty Pageants<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHkA6laKJTuHfbATd355mDBMILMsjkxB_0umiOB3K_EDkwXVRQ2vyu23OpfbhlGjGYRKbLTRA6lNwbJg25xmeYv73uy3Ho6pV15aV6qkOKC5zZN6q_wMboJrBhjowAKK3up2K_V0cOmY/s1600/DSC02754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHkA6laKJTuHfbATd355mDBMILMsjkxB_0umiOB3K_EDkwXVRQ2vyu23OpfbhlGjGYRKbLTRA6lNwbJg25xmeYv73uy3Ho6pV15aV6qkOKC5zZN6q_wMboJrBhjowAKK3up2K_V0cOmY/s320/DSC02754.JPG" width="240" /></a>So I have attended three beauty pageants and have been a judge for one, so I thought I would make a blog entry on this topic. I am sure many of you have seen Beauty Pageants on TV. In my village, Beauty Pageants are a wonderful past time shared by the community. There are individual competitions and partner competitions. In both cases, participants showcase their best walk, knowledge, and sometimes even talents to the judges and community members. Kids even imitate beauty competitions by merely walking around like a model. I find this amusing and even sometimes participate in these games.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5fbvsJykl2i-KN4I3pgE_GRJN9eA3AU5hksQsX7duR508SblZNMiGIdui9O9b1iCCRHiRC_n5GzFy5MWXn4oTJf-eEKl2Fehc1ZKA2e8juaD06F_1ZmUVx5El4_d2l6GWBSp6RSZGq8/s1600/DSC02758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5fbvsJykl2i-KN4I3pgE_GRJN9eA3AU5hksQsX7duR508SblZNMiGIdui9O9b1iCCRHiRC_n5GzFy5MWXn4oTJf-eEKl2Fehc1ZKA2e8juaD06F_1ZmUVx5El4_d2l6GWBSp6RSZGq8/s320/DSC02758.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> There is a lot of excitement that goes on around beauty pageants as a DJ is invited and community members are excited about who they want to win. At the beginning of the event there is an initial walk around the stage by all the contestants. Normally they wear the same colors or the same article of clothing. Participants must try extra hard to stand out from the crowd, whether its by their walk, smile, or slight pose. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The next round is normally the formal wear. Each contestant gets a turn on the stage to show off their outfit and model off their features. Once this round is over, it is usually followed by a traditional attire competition. Afterwords, the judges combine their scores and determine the top five contestants.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> The top five contestants are asked questions by the judging panel to see the contestant’s knowledge on a particular topic. Once the top five contestants have answered their questions the judges deliberate and the winner is announce.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppprxmxIDDeAeYPoNvWfSNOSMGAM9fY48l1_mrixOI7YV-ihWemXkmQlEG1V2ETMj90eb9VV_WxKy0M8wCWFH_eD5cebfIo7coTlnzEcmh2Yqna0qEsDNOVGBj_Ozg6xGZVjyaF7-Ucg/s1600/DSC02803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppprxmxIDDeAeYPoNvWfSNOSMGAM9fY48l1_mrixOI7YV-ihWemXkmQlEG1V2ETMj90eb9VV_WxKy0M8wCWFH_eD5cebfIo7coTlnzEcmh2Yqna0qEsDNOVGBj_Ozg6xGZVjyaF7-Ucg/s320/DSC02803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Unlike in the United States, I have yet to see a swimsuit competition, and the talent portion is not an often occurrence. Similar to United States, participants bring out their best to showcase themselves (clothes, make-up, etc.). It’s a good time, and provides the community a great time to be together. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">P.S: Photo’s Featured Here are from our <b>Cross Dress Beauty Pageant Fundraiser</b>. Funds made for this pageant were used to build a home for a destitute person in the community. AND YES IT WAS HILARIOUS: D</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-29896157727089346122012-02-09T12:30:00.001-05:002012-02-09T12:30:01.965-05:00My Ex- Roommate<m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>His name was Jack. He was illegally living with me for two weeks. I had no idea he was living here until I decided to clean one weekend.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We met each other screaming and running from each other. Him running because he got spotted and me running because I spotted a lizard.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdDKQQmeD14fYCmWnn7JIDrSikQ_6jo-XZxCEwNlycvPSCbnjOdpYC7YO5FUjU9LuRz__AFRCsGC2IH7I_pFueL-hayMjUtVJ2CUrb43q6qIhW2EsKFPgV0xwaqfMQ-Nx1Adv9LdhoXM/s1600/DSC02715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdDKQQmeD14fYCmWnn7JIDrSikQ_6jo-XZxCEwNlycvPSCbnjOdpYC7YO5FUjU9LuRz__AFRCsGC2IH7I_pFueL-hayMjUtVJ2CUrb43q6qIhW2EsKFPgV0xwaqfMQ-Nx1Adv9LdhoXM/s320/DSC02715.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is a lizard in this picture can you find him?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After calling friends and calming myself down. I realized his stay wasn’t so bad. He could eat all the bugs, but he wasn’t. He was a lazy lizard. I am not sure what he was eating or maybe I was too fast in cleaning the bugs. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But all I know is one Saturday morning I had the door open and he walked out. He looked back at me and I looked at him, no longer being afraid of his presence, and he walked away.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><i> </i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Dear Ex-Roommate,</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i> If you should one day read this, I just wanted to say I hope you didn’t leave any lizard poop anywhere because I am never going near the box I found you in again.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>-Finda</i></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-14223221496816437952012-02-07T12:30:00.003-05:002012-02-07T12:30:01.334-05:00The Lands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gxUnEqaLdq5nuqZR9lZzqOK9Run4h7zYlIuz91a8nh3MVOrfUyyFn5Jp5xStoJOBtiAi7X1pgic9XmuaivNjilQ9zsO9WZuvAqyms6qHHO94L7i8QJvK5CAJL7lDBLbY35txMBI-7AI/s320/DSC03168.JPG" width="320" /></i></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">During the New Year I got the wonderful opportunity to spend New Years and the day following at the lands. The lands refer to the plowing lands here in Botswana. Most families own lands and a cattle post. A cattle post is a farm where families keep their cattle. Cattle are highly valued in Botswana.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">During Holidays, most families head to their lands and cattle posts to do some plowing or to watch the cattle. During the regular days, most families have family members or hired headmen to watch over their property. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUv_lA28yy5HULGJlvJtQRp47p5Pi8fuI-lg_xTGNI9UE8yI_A-vSgHTiJSDkPUNE_hAw9w8DvwZerd_BQ26y9kro480MqKp4SwYX-BogHhfOJyGC0UTD_LmcnyxV8YSMV2HyESzFbr4/s1600/DSC03175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUv_lA28yy5HULGJlvJtQRp47p5Pi8fuI-lg_xTGNI9UE8yI_A-vSgHTiJSDkPUNE_hAw9w8DvwZerd_BQ26y9kro480MqKp4SwYX-BogHhfOJyGC0UTD_LmcnyxV8YSMV2HyESzFbr4/s320/DSC03175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The life at the lands is very simple. There is little to no electricity, and water is very precious. We got water from neighboring villages and transported them in barrels to the lands. We slept in a house located on the property. Houses or homes vary at the lands, from a traditional house to a regular housing structure. I got the opportunity to cook in a Batswana traditional kitchen, see a goat slaughtered, and to cook the meat afterwards.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVH_WBDhiCtKI2E8XXgBPUMP0zYBM7Pdh1bNSKkbWAr8KnDTVlv2t2pwfTwJ89g93Beo-DYSzoThvVVCqbwofNXDnS6a13q_6NvkEg7XChk37QR1_-Ks262gJoA1k-cP7_KdGlsI46hU/s1600/DSC03215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVH_WBDhiCtKI2E8XXgBPUMP0zYBM7Pdh1bNSKkbWAr8KnDTVlv2t2pwfTwJ89g93Beo-DYSzoThvVVCqbwofNXDnS6a13q_6NvkEg7XChk37QR1_-Ks262gJoA1k-cP7_KdGlsI46hU/s320/DSC03215.JPG" width="240" /></a>On New Years, I attended a party on neighbor’s lands. There was a DJ, food, a bomb fire, and lots of dancing. At midnight we shot fireworks and danced the night away. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The following days we visited the local villages, gathered more waters, and watch the local choirs. We drove around to the various choirs presenting the village. The choirs normally set themselves up</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I enjoyed my time at the lands. At the end of the day it gave me perspective about the Batswana people.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-81590571491118020262012-01-20T18:30:00.002-05:002012-01-26T14:09:56.316-05:00The Internet<m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">Happy New Year Everyone, I thought I start the New Year with a tech related post.</div><div class="MsoNormal">-Finda</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I was always taught to be mindful and remember people who have slow internet connections, but it seems that mentality has gone our the door for many companies.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is sad, but it provides many opportunities to those who are mindful of their users. Facebook is a great example of providing the same internet experience anywhere you go. While I may struggle to access my email, Facebook is probably the most accessible site since I have been here.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">While I may encounter some soft errors, the overall functionality is still there. The interface is still the same and I am able to upload photo’s faster then I can on my blog.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As developing countries become more connected via internet, companies need to be mindful of internet speeds. Success comes when you can accommodate a variety of audiences. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-45649627547150246592011-11-28T19:00:00.000-05:002011-11-28T19:00:03.503-05:00Dear Mom<div class="ii gt" id=":170"><div id=":16z">Dear Mom<br />
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I know you and grandma taught me how to wash my clothes by hand, and shower with a bucket. But I miss you. We both knew if I avoided cleaning my clothes you guys would jump in and save me. I have decided to take on researching teleportation as a side project. In the mean time I have sent you a gift that will be coming in two to three weeks with a note attached to it saying "Please Clean".<br />
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Love,<br />
Finda<br />
Botswana Livin'</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-23125070833619567412011-11-25T19:00:00.003-05:002012-03-07T11:23:53.811-05:00An Important Setswana Word<div class="ii gt" id=":16m"><div id=":16n">An important word that I have learned in Botswana is pula.<br />
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Pula =Botswana Currency<br />
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This word can be used for just about anything. For example:<br />
Give me my pula?<br />
Where is my pula?<br />
Heck no, I'm not giving you my pula.<br />
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This word has been crowned my new favorite word.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
Finda<br />
Without Pula :(</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-87231582582854166062011-11-03T12:00:00.000-04:002011-11-03T12:00:08.066-04:00Training<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My weeks have been filled with training, spending time with my host family, studying, and exploring my village. Out of all of these things most of my time is spent in training. Training is from Monday to Saturday and covers a breadth of topics that will be key to assisting us in our roles in our communities. On an overall, most of training can be grouped into five main topics.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Security</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In comparison to previous Peace Corps training sessions, security sessions have been increased. These sessions equip us on how to prevent crime, where to go, what to do, and who to call if crime does happen. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Botswana Culture and Language</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It is essential to our roles as volunteers to integrate into our communities and adapt to our new homes. In addition to living with our host families, we are provided language lessons and cross cultural workshops. These workshops provide us the opportunity to exam cross-cultural differences and similarities between the Batswana and Americans. Additionally, our group goes on mini field trips to cultural events around town in order to gain an appreciation of the Batswana culture, customs, and traditions.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">HIV/ AIDS</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Every country works with Peace Corps for different reasons. While all of the volunteers have different backgrounds and skill sets, our core goal is HIV/AIDS Capacity Building Volunteers. With this in mind, our training focuses on educating the causes of HIV/AIDS within Botswana, and what we can do as volunteers in our various roles.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Personal Health</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In addition to learning a new culture, language, etc, we have the luxurious opportunity of encountering new bugs, new climate, and new sicknesses and disease. With all this in mind, sessions are incorporated into our training that teaches us how to cope and overcome things we have or will encounter. Personal Health includes emotional and physical health, which is very important as there are many potential stress factors that a person will encounter living in another country for two years.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Peace Corps Policy</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Lastly, policy is also stressed during training in order to ensure that we promote the three missions of Peace Corps in a safe manner.</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5212639337144598388.post-22676247696773546302011-11-01T06:41:00.000-04:002011-11-01T06:41:00.106-04:00Toliet Paper<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In Botswana, having toilet paper available in the bathroom is not the norm. People normally carry or keep the toilet tissue with them to the bathroom. Coming from a culture that is discreet about their time in the bathroom, walking around with toilet tissue feels like a walk of shame. Each time I pick up the toilet tissue and carry it to the bathroom, I feel like people are staring and whispering “You know where she is going.” Luckily, I am happy to say I am not the only one who feels this way. One of my fellow trainee’s took the time to inform us of her destination to the toilet, after grabbing the toilet tissue. This was very helpful as there was no doubt in our minds where she was going.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In honesty, my feelings are paranoia, but I will like to say if I have to carry around toilet tissue, it would be nice to make it an accessory. So please send me toilet tissue covers.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">-Finda</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10135786321771303337noreply@blogger.com0