Sunday, April 29, 2007

Still in the States...but not for long!!

I have finally arrived in D.C. and I have settled into my hotel located in Georgetown. The training has not yet begun because I have arrived a bit early due to flight conflicts. However, I thought this piece of information would be useful for anyone trying to contact me via mail.

According to the Peace Corps:

Relative to the service in most developing countries, mail
between the United States and Nicaragua is dependable.
Airmail takes about two weeks; surface mail can take months.
Packages sometimes mysteriously disappear in transit, and
sometimes they are opened and the contents stolen. It is best
if packages do not exceed two pounds. Padded-envelope-sized
packages work well. Don’t have money, airline tickets, or other
valuables sent to you through the mail. Sensitive items should
be sent via an expedited—and insured—courier service such
as DHL or UPS. You can consult with in-country staff on how
to do this, if necessary.
It is usually not worth the effort to have large packages sent
from the United States. Volunteers are responsible for paying
customs fees on larger items, which may exceed the value of
the items sent. Retrieving a package often means an entire
day’s travel to the city. There are modern supermarkets and
other well-stocked stores in the capital that should supply all
your needs.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Let the adventure begin!!

Welcome to my blog. I have decided to create a spot for all of my friends and family to visit, instead of sending out mass emails. This way I can also post pictures without clogging up email inboxes. This is my first blog and I am planning on updating it weekly (depending on Internet access).

After close to a year of waiting to be placed due to changing locations and various other delays I have finally been assigned to Nicaragua for my 2 years of service. I will be leaving April 29 for Washington D.C. and on May 2 will be leaving for Nicaragua.

My main concern thus far is my Spanish comprehension level, because I have not spoken the language since high school. Of course, I have been told by many people that the language will come rushing back to me when I am immersed in the culture (however I have my doubts). Lately, I have been trying to brush up on my skills by listening to a Spanish podcast, which is actually taught by two Scottish individuals. Once I was able to understand their Scottish accent I finally began to understand the basic Spanish they were teaching me! Hopefully, I know enough now to get me by…but that will be put to the test when I arrive in Nicaragua. For now adios!