Madagascar Independance Day

Wednesday, 14 June 2023 (121)

Dr. Clertant had asked me last night if I would be available this morning to go with him and visit a co-worker who lost a family member. He showed me the translation on his phone. I called my tutor, Manda who was going to meet up with me this morning but he was already  in Sahanivotry. We spent the next two hours on tutoring as the Doctor was not yet ready. The lesson he had prepared was helpful in that it covered shopping and specifically for meat. We went into town and practiced at the various stores.

Afterwards, Dr. Clertant asked me into his office and mentioned there was a collection for the bereaved person. I had heard this idea of getting together some money I just didn't know who it was for or how much. He mentioned a number and I gave a bit more. Then all the staff including interns were asked in the office.  Dr. Clertant took off his hat and got serious. I don't know what he was saying or who it was about. Then Sarah handed the envelope of money over to Simonette, who looked a bit saddened. Then it was over and we all left the room. 

After some fried bread I seem to like (think fried scones but without the fluffiness) I headed up the mountain with Dobby in tow. I put her in my backpack as we crossed the river. I didn't bring my life preserver (yes, I know, against Peace Corps rules) but it just seems so embarrassing that no one has a life preserver but me. There's also the fact that the river is only two or three feet deep in parts.

It's about a 20 or 25 minute hike up to David, the carpenter's place. They had just started on building the table I had commissioned and I was able to do some work on it to help. I planned smooth some of the legs and wood pieces for it. The tools here are very plain and basic. It would be great to have just a few of the battery operated power tools I have back on the mountain. But David is an expert at doing this thing all his life. Yes, the final pieces are on the rough side but all hand made. He and other in the family speak to me as if I understand the majority of what they are saying when it is less than a minority. I do a lot of nods and appear to understand while getting one word in 10, maybe less. Spent a few hours helping and watch. Even some filming. I wish I could provide him with a few more modern tools but I'm not sure he needs it. To think how quickly and easy it would make things to have a table saw or sander. And although those items exist here - the electricity is not common - and not to be had on the mountain.

Eventually, both Dobby and myself were dozing off so we decided to leave. His son had just brought over more wood so David's wife and I started down the hill with the five very heavy lumber boards I had asked for yesterday at market. I even put a couple of the boards on my head as they do. I couldn't handle it without holding on with at least one hand but it does work. After a couple hundred of step it does a number on your neck and back.

More games with the group tonight like last night. At least it wasn't Monopoly. I never thought through the possibility that I would have to play it so much.

Droopy eyelid

Thursday, 15 June 2023 (122)

I've been out of internet credit and needed a reason to get to Antsirabe and buy it as well as more paint (grey for the shudders now) and a few other supplies like another water container for when the water stops flowing - a regular occurrence three or four times a week lately. Best to check the water flow before heading out for a shower mornings

Well, my sunburned face gave me such a reason. I had a hard time getting to sleep last night because of the heat and pain. It didn't help that I added to the problem by pealing some of the old skin off and exposing new skin that wasn't ready to peal yet. I never expected this would happen as I had been outdoors high, in the mountains for the last year and never had sunburn issues, but I do here. I have nothing in my medical kit for 3rd degree burns. A talk with Dr. Clertant and my PMO medical doctor on the phone and some burn medication would be made available at the pharmacy in Antsirabe. Unfortunately, the pharmacy was closed when I got there.

It's also interesting that our Peace Corps doctors do not want the local doctors assisting or making any recommendations. I understand, but also think it a slight to their abilities. Yet I understand that only our doctors can or should take ultimate responsibility for an American's healthcare.

Saturday, 17 June 2023 (124)

Headed towards the hillside where my friend, the carpenter, David lives. Before getting to the river, I encountered him on his bike just returning from Manadona with some wood glue he had to buy there. He expressed how it's more expensive there then Antsirabe. I had just thought of him when I was in Antsirabe on Thursday and had thought to buy him more glue. Perhaps I should have acted on that impulse. But it was a good coincidence and we preceded up the mountain. 

Spent a few hours working on the two wood planks I had brought up to smooth out the surfaces to make a couple more shelves. This was one of the five boards, cut in two I had just bought from them on Wednesday. All this improvement on the wood would be done in a minute with the proper electric table saw and sander but requires so much more labor and time to do with basic carpentry tools. He would go on and on about what we were doing or talk about the progress of the table he's building for me. I would give him my full attention and nod occasionally or acknowledge I understood when I thought I may have. The reality is that I understood maybe 3% and gathered more from the body language, the pointing, or the non-verbal cues. I believe he thinks I understand more than I do.

He tried explaining why the table wouldn't be completed until Tuesday. Something about not having the right wood or that he was waiting for a tool or something.

Recrossing the river, no one was manning the boat on this side of the river. I had been told that the river crossing is a service provided by the Fokantany (community). I noticed it was filling with water as is usual. Not sure why plugging a few holes is difficult or costly but I imagine other things are a priority. Instead, they just bail water out after every trip across or so. I figured I'd do a little bailing while Dobby and I wait. Turns out their bucket is worn, cracked and has holes in the bottom. Eventually, one of the travelers on the other side walked across the river at a point that is only knee deep. He poled the boat across for me. 

Later, on the way to town for drinks and those eggs I paid for but forgot to pick up earlier this week - I stopped at the boat crossing and gave them one of my two buckets.

More laundry done this afternoon so that all my clothes are washed before Natalie's arrival. I did corner Dr. Clertant and let him know of Natalie's surprise visit. He was smiling and probably doesn't know about the three month visitor rule. He seemed very happy she was coming. I mentioned it was only for a few days but he didn't seem to mind about the length. I mentioned I would keep the same schedule but with as little as I do, I doubt that matters.

I've been loaning my Peace Corp bike out to Francisco and he was gone overnight with it. Perhaps, I shouldn't be so giving with property that isn't mine.

For dinner I had mashed potatoes and risked cooking some sausage type meat I bought at the meat seller. I am big on meat but here not so much. Seeing the conditions it cut, sold, kept and how badly the meat sellers place looks is enough to make anyone a vegetarian.  But it was fine, especially when I cooked it well.

Interns and I

Sunday, 18 June 2023 (125)

Don't normally have breakfast but I did yesterday and today. Yesterday was oatmeal that I added chocolate drink mix to. Next time - no chocolate. Today, a couple eggs and fried potatoes.

If I don't write down the day's events I seem to forget. It isn't that the day's events are uninteresting or full. Every day brings new experiences. I just get lazy about writing.

Painting those boards I worked on up the mountain yesterday - all planed down and smooth now. I'll get these shelves up just above where I expect to put the new desk.

It's been another sunny day here in Paradise. It can be a little cold here at night and in the mornings. There are plenty of gaps in my doors and windows, and you can see sunlight coming through the ceiling . It has rained only once in the month I've been here. Not complaining. I wonder where all the moisture comes from for all the planting and farming.

Out my northern window, which is the one usually always open with a warm and sunny view, I can hear singing at the church just across the field. It is interesting that they use the church. Half of one of their long walls is completely gone. It's probably a hazard with so much structure removed. I asked my tutor about it the other day and he said they were putting in an addition. 

Saturday, 24 June 2023 (131)

Natalie left Antsirabe on a SoaTrans taxi-brusse this morning at 8am. I finished a few errands and headed back to Sahanivotry and arrived about 11am.

This is the first entry I've done the entire visit Natalie was here. I'm not likely to put it on the web blog as it would give away the idea that I had family visit when the Peace Corps has a rule against that for the first three months we're at site.

We spent the first day at Antsirabe where I picked her up from the SoaTrans from Tana. Had a nice day exploring the "Tsina Sabotse" (Saturday Market) and ate at some nice little restaurants. Stayed at the Green Park Hotel this first night and her last.

Three days were spent in Sahanivotry where she met my supervisor, Dr Clertant, my co-workers (we played Monopoly and lost - they are getting better at this - though I doubt the game will survive another month of their hard handling of it). Also met my tutor "Manda" and we went out to his sister's house to do a sanitation presentation. "They can understand you," was the complement he gave me. 

My carpenter friend "David" came by to get my help in bringing down the table he built which was now finished. Up the mountain and back with a meter by two meter table. Crossing the river was a little challenging. I saw that they had a different probably more used bucket to bail the boat with. Looks like someone liked the newer bucket and replaced it with something less. Am I to take that as a warning to be careful with my gifts?

Back to Antsirabe on Thursday for just a day trip. With Natalie's help, I was able to bring back more paint and a computer case. It turns out that the computer people strip it all down bare bones. I had to ask for a power cord even though I bought a 500watt power supply. And the case came without a fan, screws or little rubber case feet. Had to duct tape the fan in the case and scavenge a few screws off the motherboard and case in order to attach the motherboard inside the case. Turning it on did not get me the desired effect so I'll have to try and troubleshoot the problem(s).

It's discouraging but at least Natalie brought me a large computer monitor if I end up trying to go back to editing with the laptop.

Friday we headed back to Antsirabe with Dobby for her third and fourth shots including Rabies. Now I need to wait three weeks, have a blood draw and submit the results for paperwork that could take up to three months to get back that would allow me to take her to America.

We were going to go to the fancy I'nsolite restaurant but I was very tired and we ate at the Green Park restaurant instead.

Sunday, 25 June 2023 (132)

Out my closest window is music from my neighbors as well as loud music from the community. Out my other window is church music from the church across the field. It's usually about a three hour service. No one has a problem here blasting their music for all to hear. No one seems to care or at least I do not notice anyone saying anything.

Now their blaring a speaker over the PA. 

It is Independence Day weekend so I understand. It's like a market day in terms of the amount of people out and about. They have built not motor driven carnival rides. And there will be loud music and parting well into the night if yesterday was any indicator.

I hope to get out and take pictures and video of the activities in the community today. I've been wanting to spend some of every Sunday doing so but have not as yet. In fact, I'm hesitant to just go out my door as there are a dozen family members of at least one if not more pregnant women here waiting to deliver their babies. I get stared at enough everywhere I go. It's nice not to have all my actions here at home to also be under scrutiny. It is understandable to realize that the rooms we live our lives here are so small and contained that being outside is preferable. Yet my place is more than twice the size of my co-workers. 

Thousands turned up for the festivities

Madagascar Independence Day - Monday, 26 June 2023 (133)

Both the Doctor and Mayor asked me to attend the festivities this morning out on the soccer field out by the school. I got to sit om the stand with the dignitaries and got introduced as the Peace Corp Volunteer. Fortunately, I did not have to say anything.

About 10am there about a thousand people and kids. In an hour there would be close to four or five thousand I was told.  I have no idea where all these kids could have come from nor why a small village like Sahanivotry would put host such a large Independence Day party.

Doctor Clertant expressed some interest in me taking pictures. So I went out into the hordes of kids and got plenty of photos and GoPro video. No one here in Madagascar seems to mind me taking photos or video. I don't think they ever see them and likely don't have the same hangups that Americans have of seeing themselves online or dressed good or bad. I try to keep my picture taking to public areas and am always worried when I am just taking pictures of children.

I ended up keeping a couple hundred photos and about an hour of video. Shared copies with the doctor and the Mayor hoping they will see my ability to do more of the same. I was thinking just the other day that the staff here could use new photos that are currently displayed at the CSB.

The ceremony was mostly just the main spokesperson doing introductions of VIPs and the misc. comments as the children's groups all formed up in what I expect was their schools and age groups. Then the Mayor Gave a 10 minute talk. Then every child got to march around in front of the grandstand. It took a while and then more time was taken to enjoy a couple musical groups of adults and children. By then, most of the crowd had dissipated including myself.

There was a sort of mini-market leading away from the parade grounds - mostly people selling food. There was also a human powered Ferris wheel and merry go round.

I noticed the night belonged to those a bit inebriated as I ventured out to the town main street near sunset. Time to get back and stay inside. Of course the music blared into the night. Surprisingly, the music got mellower as the night wore on.

Tuesday, 27 June 2023 (134)

Spent the morning at the CSB as instructed. The doctor was in Antsirabe until this afternoon. 

I find myself in so many conversations where everyone else does the talking and I must look like I know what is being said but I catch only a few words here or there. They continue to talk. I continue to nod. One such discussion occurred today when I the doctor was trying to convey something about the party or meal we'd all have together. I gave one of the intern's 30,000ar to buy meat. I'm not sure that was expected of me or not but I'm sure we all needed to contribute. I had thought this would occur the night before they left which is this Friday but then the doctor is planning to be out of town for a few days.

I was shocked when the interns turned up at my door this evening and insisted cooking on my gas stove, use my cookware, start asking for more food items for the dinner and I realized the party was for tonight and I was hosting it. Another table and chairs was brought in. Fortunately, they provided some plates and utensils. Ended up with 10 or 12. The meat was burnt, the noodles were the cheap pasty kind, and nothing else was looking very delicious including the standard hard and dry Sahanivotry bread. But we all shared a meal together.

Wednesday, 28 June 2023 (135)

Manda, the tutor stopped by at his usual 9am and we talked only about my plan to interview Malagasy people and use him as my translator for the editing. I tried convincing him that this would be great tutoring because he'd be teaching me the culture and helping me to integrate better than if I had to do it on my own.

As I see it, more people could see these videos that my sharing Madagascar culture for the rest of my days. This also supplies the Peace Corps with two out of the three goals we exist. Learn of others cultures and share of ours. I'd prefer if this was my only work here instead of the health component.

Back to painting this afternoon as I got the two back shudders of my co-workers done as well as three of the other doors of our building. 

Thursday, 29 June 2023 (136)

After 4 days, we finally got our water back. Took a shower and refilled all my backup water bottles. I was also hoping to do my laundry but the water stopped again early this afternoon. 

Instead of hanging around the CSB on the typical slow Thursday - I went back to painting with my last can of gray paint. Did the basketball stand and one of the two Kabones (that the outdoors WC or bathroom) and scrubbed out the one shower we all share and painted that door. Ran out of paint again. Time for another trip to Antsirabe tomorrow.

For the last two days, one of the interns has been asking me to either sell him my phone or give him one of mine. I have a backup smartphone (somewhat) I mostly use just for emergencies and for "Whereabouts" to let Peace Corps know if I'm overnighting away from my site. I also keep a different phone plan (Telma vs Orange) on it, just in case, but hardly use it at all.

It's been confusing as he seems to be trying to give me 60,000 in money but I don't know how much, or for how long he would continue to pay me or if that is even his plan. I had heard many other people talk about these kinds of asks. The people here obviously think we have a lot of money, and we do, relative to them, but I want to spend it in other ways - like painting or providing a few helpful addons or necessities. The Peace Corps has always warned me about not being to generous and I understand, but hope I can do so in ways that don't attract attention or make it appear like I can fund their projects or buy them things.

It is hard to say no but I don't have a couple of hundred thousand ariary for a phone for someone. It changes how I view the person a bit knowing that he views me as a means to get something.

More Tutoring

One of the store owners kids

Tuesday, 6 June 2023 (113)

Had the usual busy morning at the CSB as newborns, toddlers and their mothers came here for their vaccines. There was a heated discussion between Rindra and the doctor as he made some statements that we were speaking a lot of English and it doesn't appear that I am communicating any better. Rindra said she felt he was telling her how and what to do as if he was her supervisor. I get the impression that Dr. Clertant has higher expectations for Peace Corps volunteers than he should. I see some real disappointment coming his way. I believe he thinks we should speak better, be more medically skilled or just be something we (and I) clearly am not. I've asked Rindra to clarify that she is here because I am at the bottom of language skills and that other volunteers don't get tutors, just the bad ones.

It is what it is and doesn't bother me except that he has anticipations higher than he should. I may never be able to write down their names without misspellings. I'm not even sure they themselves can. He's implying that until I can do some things perfectly, he doesn't want me to do certain tasks until I can. That's not likely to happen and I need this time and place to fail and the grow and to learn - and it will be slow. I thought he himself understood that but it seems just the opposite now.

The market afterwards brings the usual entertainment to me as well as that which I provide. Trying to see and talk with the same vendors every week and show the locals I am here to stay. That I am a fixture in the town. We came across the majoy and I ask Rindra to express our concerne that Dr. Clertant may be expecting too much.

It came to me that it may be hard to leave if I come to love the people I serve. Seems pretty obvious.

There are three interns spending the next month here at the CSB. From Rindra's interpretation, I believe they are to be paramedics studying their profession and required to do this kind of training. I had them over to play a game of monopoly. It went slowly and they didn't always grasp the strategy involved - like the necessity to buy and own property. Unfortunately, I won which I shouldn't do.

Wednesday, 7 June 2023 (114)

Went into town and with Rindra's assistance worked out a deal to buy a dozen eggs weekly from one of the restaurants for about 833ar each. Still just $2.30 a dozen. A bit more than the going rate, but worth it to not have to buy them in Antsirabe and bring them home unbroken by taxi-bruss every week.

Late this morning, we spent some time with the three medical/paramedic interns who are staying with the CSB for the next month. They wanted to know about my medical experiences but I tried to turn it around on them and expressed how similar we are. How impressed I am with them, for choosing this profession. How great it is to serve, and how we shouldn't view our differences as anything other than that. No comparisons are appropriate or necessary. Our countries, like ourselves are all different and shouldn't be compared. Later, Rindra said that I was inspiring but could never have expressed myself if she wasn't my interpreter.

We also met with the town carpenter, David who made the bookcase of mine and we commissioned him to make me a table for 120,000ar. I gave him a 80,000 advance. I think that’s a great rate and I intend on paying him more. He's an older guy (61) with lots of energy and enthusiasm. We also mentioned how I would like to spend some time with him observing, filming, learning and even working on projects - for free. No way would I take any money or compensation.

He was ecstatic and walked up the hill with us after doing his errands. At his home a mile up the hill, and across the river, he introduced us to his family (son, wife, daughter-in-law, grandchildren). Not sure what I am buying into here but it's another way I have to connect with the community. He brought out his tools to show me what he is working with. All hand tools, no battery or electricity here. He showed me photos of some of his work - truly amazing for the circumstances, simplicity, and complications. I showed him photos of my small buildings, and of course he thinks he could learn from me. I doubt that. His lifetime of building the Malagasy way is so much more experience than my hobby.

I'm thinking a day a week up here. Bring Dobby. Learn. Share. Speak the language. Contribute as little or as much as I can.

This afternoon, the doctor's wife mentioned how she had talked with other teachers at the school she is over and how they would like to have me teach some of their students and teachers after the coming holidays between school semesters. When she asked me when or how often, I turned it around on her - as is the Peace Corps way - when do they want me to teach and how often? Their needs and wants are my focus, not mine. My schedule is theirs. I am happy to serve, however and where ever.

Before the sun set, we had the group of three interns (Francisco, Simonette, and Nantenaina), one of my co-workers (Yanch), the doctors daughter (Sam) and Rindra come over to play another game of monopoly. This time I tried not to win and didn't. I have no idea how I could teach any of the other games to them when Rindra is gone, but should try. We started this as a way to teach English but they don't seem to be speaking or learning it much. We are having fun and I'm trying not to overdo my hosting. I've provided soda and candy. I have the perfect atmosphere with a great lighting fixture, my small game sized table and a great environment with space and color.

Edible bug found in the market but not sure what kind

Thursday, 8 June 2023 (115)

No running water again today. About every two days the water stops running or just slows down significantly at times during the day.

Spent the morning at the CSB but with nothing to do I started picking up trash. Got the whole compound cleaned up. Doctor C says I don't need to or shouldn't do but that doesn't stop me. He also said the mayor wanted to talk with me so we wandered over to the village offices. On the way, he was trying to express that he thought I had a problem with him - this likely due to the fact that we talked with the mayor on Tuesday and it obviously got back to him. I said I had no problems but that I was concerned he would eventually have problems with me. The mayor came along down the path and I think we just skipped the need to talk by saying there was no problems. 

I did mention my connecting with and plans to work with David, a friend of his and the town's carpenter. Did we all solve the problem of working together better? Not sure. Probably not. We'll see.

My tutor Manda came by. He needed to be trained by Rindra but she had gone up to Antsirabe with Nada and her sick cat to my vet. I entertained or I should say, was tutored for my first hour as we covered material I was already familiar with. Rindra eventually came around and we did the training he needs to get for the Peace Corps to feel satisfied.

The gang of three interns and the doctor's daughter and Sarah came by for more games. We taught them Skull King and Liars dice or I should say Rindra did. But liar's dice wasn't an easy teach as math skills here in Madagascar are pretty bad. But it should have been fairly fun even if I am the only one learning about numbers in their language.

Nada's cat died this evening. It had a severe case of worms supposedly and it was too small and young for any treatment.

Found in Antsirabe today

Friday, 9 June 2023 (116)

Before Rindra left for home today, we had one more good talk with the doctor and discussed the possibility of painting the two rooms used for pregnancies. I have always thought a fresh coat of paint would help brighten up and encourage women to want to come to the CSB for their deliveries. I didn't want this to just be me or my idea. I keep trying to express or in this situation, have Rindra express how the Peace Corps methods is more about getting the community to tell you what they need or want rather than it coming from the Peace Corp volunteer. In the current case, it seems that the doctor and I are on the same page. 

I also wanted Rindra to express the idea that this is not going to happen by the Peace Corps. Yes, we could put in a grant for paint but that likely will take several months to get approved and funded. Perhaps we'll still do so but it can help fund more paint down the road.

I was able to get a ride with the Peace Corps vehicle to Antsirabe where I picked up more groceries. Unfortunately, they are mostly snacks, candies, and cookies. I originally was going to take in Dobby as they injected her last shot into the skin of her neck instead of muscle. For the last week, she's had a lump where the medication pooled. But today the lump subsided and Rindra called the vet to see if it was ok not to bring her in for a second shot.

It was important to pick up more paint to do Sarah's room on Monday. My regular paint store was out of that particular blue paint so I started looking in some of the others. I asked a couple guys standing on the street where I could buy paint. One took me to a store just down the street. I could find it on my own but he was being very helpful. Obviously he knows how to get into my attention and likely will expect something in return. I don't have a problem with that so long as we both benefit. The store didn't appear to have the paint but another gentleman overheard our conversation and took us to the back warehouse and found just the right kind of blue, maybe even brighter than the last.

So I bought the paint and needed a ride to the Taxi-brusses. Of course this guy has a PusPus and took me there. In negotiating his fee I didn't have anything smaller than a 10,000. He said something along the lines of examine your heart and I knew he was playing me a little, but I was ok with it as he had been very helpful. I asked for 5,000 back and he was good with that. Normally the PusPus ride costs 2,000.

The nearly two hour ride back got me to thinking. I remember several years ago a dream that came to me several times. In it I was on a another mission. In that dream I was older than everyone else. I had thought it was related to a proselytizing mission for the church but now I see how it probably was about serving in this capacity with all the younger PCVs. It isn't the first time I've had dreams that came true or brought understanding to my life.

Saturday, 10 June 2023 (117)

It had been a good day to get things accomplished. I got my laundry done, painted some shelves and the boards used to secure my shutters, and I cleaned up and organized my room as well as scrubbed some of the floor.

Sunday, 11 June 2023 (118)

Woke up with a droopy left eyelid. It's probably related to the bad sunburn I have on my nose. I've been applying moisturizing cream and perhaps that got into my eye. I need to wait until tomorrow before I can or should contact the Peace Corps doctors. They don't like to be disturbed on weekends unless it's an emergency. I also have a Tovo coming by tomorrow when he is in the neighborhood.

All Welcome - Especially Ponies

No ponies yet.

Friday, 2 June 2023 (109)

Spent the day in Antsirabe with Rindra and her mother. As usual, spend more money than I should have but needed to get items like blue paint for my co-workers rooms, paint brushes, dogfood and just staples for me to eat. My diet has taken a hit. I eat usually just a single meal a day and try and get some food off the street vendor or at the local restaurant. Though the food I eat there is of the same type I feel comfortable with - potatoes, meat and not much more.

I finally found and bought some eggs - not found here in Sahanivotry or Manadona. The hardest part is getting them back on the trek and taxi-bruss without breaking. But tonight it was heaven to taste fried eggs again after almost four months without. I cooked two but then had to cook two more.

We officially called Manda and confirmed him as my tutor. We'll start with some training for him in the official Peace Corps way next week. We also called the LDS couple to give them the bad news. Another discussion was had with Cr. Clertant about what his hopes are for me in teaching sensitization sessions. It's a little optimistic and scary to think that I can master the language enough to teach with it but if I fold the vocabulary in and work at it perhaps I can.

Saturday, 3 June 2023 (110)

Today Rindra, her mom, even Dobby and I are going to Antsirabe. There we'll meet up with Samson. The plan is to get Dobby her second shot (2 of the 4 or 5 required). We also found a vet in town who will do the spading operation but we first need to get her all the shots. We also talked with the Taxi-bruss driver on the way home yesterday and questioned him about bringing a dog on the vehicle. He said as long as it was in a box and stayed in my lap that it shouldn't be a problem. We'll see. I'm still not likely to tell them I have the dog in the box. We'll attempt to keep it quiet until we're not able to.

I'm up at 4am this morning as Dr Clertant asked if I would be interested in observing at the least, if not participating in a circumcision. The early hour seems to be a tradition according to him. It wasn't till nearly six am that the seven family members arrived. Even though the arms of the 18 month old were somewhat incapacitated by wrapping his arms in his shirt - I was asked to hold his arms down.

A needle with something to numb the procedure was injected in his penis area and a few cuts were made. The worst part was the use of a soldering iron to seal the cut. Not a medical grade, or even sanitized soldering iron - just your everyday soldering iron used to fuse two wires together.

Then off to Antsirabe with Rindra and her mom and Dobby in her box and large rice bag. "Great camouflage", one off the other PCVs would later call it. Even if some think it ok, we'd just keep it low key and not tell anyone. It worked out well and Dobby didn't make any noise or try and get out.

She got her second shot before we dropped her at my room at the Green Park Hotel - one of two officially accepted Peace Corp hotels. The rest of the day was spent shopping for things needed or thought needed. Then I had dinner with four of my G58 PCVs - Tahlia, Sarah, Julica, Emily and Nada (she had to get back to Manadona for her cat) and four of G57 PCVs - Becky, Jesse, Thomas and Kathryn. Sam and Rindra (technically a Peace Corps LCF) choose not to come along as Rindra had her mother along, and I thought they were going to attend a musical concert in town for Mother's day (which is tomorrow here in Madagascar).

It was great to hear about the other PCVs experiences being four months in country longer than us. They are all Agricultural and Education PCVs. It is true that each of our experiences are different and unique. Some have busy schedules and demands made of them. Some like me - not so many demands, at least not yet. My town is very small compared with Nada's just down the road in Manadona. It's probably about four or five times larger and likely the work at the CSB there is also proportionally more.

I asked the other group if every day still seemed like an adventure to them. They responded back,"if you are doing it right." We went to a very foreigner restaurant. It's called L'insolite, a very fancy place. Almost everyone there was French or spoke it. Dinner cost about 450,000 ariary for nine of us. That about $104 for food that is very western including duck, steak, ice cream, and most had wine.

Sunday, 4 June 2023 (111)

I had thought to head right home this morning as it is more complicated carrying around a 50 pound backpack of supplies and a dog in a box/bag. But Sam talked me into staying a bit. We had lunch and found another - that makes three - American style groceries stores.

On the taxi-bruss back, the road claimed a victim - a semi-truck got stuck in the road just where they had made repairs a day or two ago. The traffic in both directions was staring to add up. I decided to walk the rest of the way not knowing how long this could take. 3-4 kilometers later a van offered to take me, and another, the rest of the way. Ten minutes after we arrived home, I saw the red taxi-bruss (we had been in) drive down the main road. We saved ourselves a few minutes but it cost us some exercise. But I was home early enough to do some sorely needed laundry - by hand of course.

Monday, 5 June 2023 (112)

Painted Yantz's room. Took most of the day and there was nothing I could do about the mold in the walls but paint over it. No amount of paint coats seem to hide it. I had bought three 8k tubs of blue paint. It took two and a half of them. It will take another trip to Antsirabe to get a couple more to paint Sarah's room next Monday. The darker colors do best and cover in just a couple coats. I feel even painting is work that I am happy to do as a Peace Corps volunteer and fits in with why we are here. It's just not proper that I am paying for it all.

Manadona and New Tutor

Finished painting room

Sunday, 28 May 2023 (104)

Another long slog to bike to Manadona for church. I felt inspired to talk with one sister about my looking for a tutor. She said she and her husband work for the missionary department here in Madagascar. I got her name and number to call in the next week or two. Like the other teacher I talked to this week they both live and work in Manadona.

Monday, 29 May 2023 (105)

Dr. Clertant is still out of town and Rindra should have gotten in to Antsirabe today. The mayor brought by a guy who was going to help me with painting. I had already started to prep the walls and floor for the blue and green paint. Turns out we had just enough blue for the one long wall but barely enough for the small green wall. The green paint is just not  the covering kind of paint. Much like the yellow wall which took half or more of the 20k bucket.

Bought my guy lunch and we finished up about 2pm. I let him go so I could finish up and get the place back in order. It's looking good now. Just a few more additions like more shelves and curtains.

Child at CSB

Tuesday, 30 May 2023 (106)

At the clinic this morning again. Starting to figure some things out but will like it more when Rindra can clarify for me my schedule, the schedule of the CSB and what exactly is expected of me. One thing already she help me determine - Dobby is a girl dog.

As soon as Rindra got here I took her around the Tuesday Market and had her answering questions for me, such as, where can I buy eggs in Sahanivotry? The answer - nowhere. I also am using her to help me remember names of my co-workers and favorite people in town. I can't keep asking them over and over, and there are so many. I think if I just write them down and their position in town and possibly try and get a photo, that should help.

Manda & Rindra - future and past tutors.

Thursday, 1 June 2023 (108)

Rindra and I went to Manadona this morning to meet with the three potential tutors and visit the Thursday Manadona market.

We spent about half an hour with Sitrapanahy and her husband who are members of the church branch here in Manadona. I felt inspired Sunday to talk to her and she said her husband would be the more likely tutor. Today, she said she would probably be the primary tutor and her husband, the backup. But in our conversations there was little English spoken by her and almost none from her husband. I also thought she had said she and her husband worked for the church, but today I discovered they did not. They learned their English from American companions when they were missionaries here many years ago. 

There was much information shared by Rindra and me but very little English was heard from them. Even when asked, only a sentence or two was conveyed and it was obvious to both of us that there could be some communication problems. 

On to Manda in Manadona. He met us just outside the CSB and he was smiling more than I remembered from last week in Sahanivotry. He spoke as much English as Malagasy in our conversations. The more we talked, the more we both felt this guy would be the best tutor. He mentioned how he was more interested in doing this more for learning than for the money. The going rate for tutoring is 15,000ar or about $3.47 an hour. I had been told this is more than what teachers make and the average people live on here is around $3 a day.

Afterwards, Rindra and I both agreed that he would be my tutor. The hard part will be letting the other couple down.

We connected with Nada, the health volunteer here in Manadona. She seemed to be a little flustered with more additional work at the CSB today. Her co-workers and two other french volunteers seemed not to be around. I was pleased to see her a little confused as we watched her getting instructions. She didn't look like she understood. I felt that same way and get the impression it is common for us to go through this confusion being new. Nada was at the top of our class in language and gave the speech to represent our cohort at swearing-in so I know it isn't just me.

We connected back up about noon when she finished her time and got something to eat. I had three or four people come up to me in the streets who knew me from church or Sahanivotry. Nada says I am already spoken about in Manadona. My reputation has already expanded even here. I should thank my supervisor Dr. Clertant, who takes every opportunity to introduce me to all people gathered together at the CSB or in town. And he and my co-workers continue to take me out to the local fokantanies to do so as well. 

The three of us got some street food and bought a few items - more balloons and chocolate to give away to children, and a ball for a little girl I met across the river yesterday who was playing with her own homemade ball of string and cardboard. We stopped to talk to an older woman who was selling groups of four and five seeds for 100ar (about two cents). How could she possible be making any money? But there she was, selling the least expensive things among hundreds of sellers. I bought four seeds and won't say what I paid for them. Thinking back, I wished I had paid ten times more. I hope to see her again soon, to do just that.

All the taxi-bruss' were more than full headed back to Sahanivotry, so we walked south until a taxi-bruss drove by that had some room. Otherwise, it would have been quite the hike back to town. Rindra's mother had made us both some lunch. 

100 Days

First Wall Painted

Monday, 22 May 2023 (98)

Turned up at the CSB but Dr. Clertant had a meeting in Antsirabe. Spent the day finishing the yellow wall of the kitchen. Everyone thinks it is good but the standards for quality are very low here. A little confused as to what is expected and wanted from me and what my schedule is to be.

Tuesday, 23 May 2023 (99)

It was Tuesday market for Sahanivotry. I was walking about before 9 when Dr. Clertant was expecting me at the CSB. It's vaccination day for expectant mothers and their newborns. Many were still setting up their stalls. There are a few things sold here on market day that is not found in the town normally. In fact, very few items are found in the town. The few stores there are mostly selling a few basics, rice, flour, corn, powdered this and that. They sell it by the kilo. Then there is some treats, drinks and important things like eggs and oil, soap and water. There's also a handful of shops that make and sell Malagasy food. But I just wanted a look at what to expect at the market. I had seen it once before during my site visit.

I had lots of questions and figured I might as well ask even with my very basic language skills. I saw something that looked like sugar cane. Sure enough it was and when I asked for what use, I was told Toako Gasy which is a homemade moonshine which Peace Corps volunteers are forbidden to drink. It's some serious and dangerous liquor. Another bag of what looked like charcoal and tree twigs or branches. I guess from what I was told it's bought for charcoal stove cooking. Lots and lots of questions. Maybe I'll find out everything eventually. Maybe I'll have my tutor in a week or so help me navigate this new world better.

At the CSB, I was completely lost. We are communicating with a mix of my very little Malagasy and the google translate app. After some confusion I was asked just to start talking with the people. Let them get to know me. Start integrating myself in the commune. Ok then. I guess I'm a little like the receptionist and welcome wagon. And I'm also the tallest one around. At 5'10, that shouldn't be, but it is. Then they had me doing weights of a pregnant mother and writing it down in her book. Every mother and child has a book that keeps track of shots, weights, treatments, medications and on and on. Then I was shown how to weigh toddlers with a scale hanging from a beam and utilizing a sling that has two holes for the toddler legs. Reach up and grab their legs and pull them through the sling, Then hang the sling on the hook and make note of the weight.

I'm not a baby kind of guy and certainly not one who likes getting his hands dirty on several babies who seem to have lost bowel movements or urinated in their pants. I doubt they have these kids in disposable diapers. Ok, I'm starting to get the idea of what is being done here. There were probably 50-60 mothers and their infants coming thru this morning. Dr. Clertant made a deal out of making a big speech about me and all I could do is try and follow what he was saying. I believe he's trying to get me integrated in the community quickly so I can gain their trust. Very difficult for me to judge how I am doing here. I feel the need to apologize for my bad language skills. I think they understand and are trying to be optimistic.

 

Wednesday, 24 May 2023 (100)

Today is a hundred days on this adventure. The Mayor brought a friend over to help put up my overhead light just like the one we had in the Pleasant Grove townhouse over the game table. They also helped sting another outlet across the ceiling and onto another wall. These were probably things I could have done myself except I like the idea of paying someone a better than acceptable wage and it doesn't hurt to see how they do things here. It's a little less than top-notch professional, almost a good enough attitude - sort of like my building style. I suppose I'd fit in well here as a worker.

Then the afternoon was spent painting another wall a bright blue (Manga) which turned out very nice. What I don't like is the fact that I am still living out of boxes, suitcases and a footlocker. Need more shelves, need more places to store my clothes, food, cameras, books and everything else. I have the wood for those shelves but need shelf hangers which I seem to have forgotten to get when I was last in town. Time for another trip to Antsirabe,

I am also eating terribly. I am not use to such limited choices. I am only cooking one meal a day and it is either noodles or potatoes or meat right now.  Bought some bananas and oranges. And certainly not hydrating enough. Too much bottled soda and not enough water. 

One of two schools in Sahanivotry

Thursday, 25 May 2023 (101)

At eight this morning, one of my coworkers and I hit the commune and she introduced me to certain important individuals in town - one was a priest, several of the school teachers but beyond that I am not sure. Again, I try and speak what little I can but my skills don't go too far. I nod, get a laugh once in a while and generally just try and understand what is being said about me. Everyone is friendly.

I got around to doing my laundry (by hand of course) and getting the place a little more picked up. I'm feeling a little on the weak and tired side by my lack of varied eating. Perhaps I should look into eating something at the local shack restaurants, Sorry, calling them shack restaurants because that just describes them and they would not be considered typical restaurants elsewhere. But that may be a solution to some of my eating issues.

Friday, 26 May 2023 (102)

Having no assignments today and being that my supervisor was going out of town for a family gathering, I decided to head to Antsirabe to pick up some supplies. Feel a little better leaving Dobby alone for hours at a time having done it a couple times now and things have been fine upon my return.

As usual, I spent more money than I had hoped to. I'm getting the hang of this. Finding my way around. Communicating enough with what I know and the apps to deal with whatever comes my way.

Bookshelf built by carpenter and myself

Saturday, 27 May 2023 (103)

Today, was a good day. Up a little later - 8:30 before I stepped outside, but so much was accomplished today. I had started to make a list of things to do each day. I have rarely gotten all the things done but certainly it is a great starting place. Here, I realize there is lots of time unencumbered from many distractions in America. Sure, I did bring plenty of digital copies of movies and yes, I do have a hundred or two of books (mostly classics), and yes, I even have internet connection, which can be a little slow and spotty. 

But if you avoid the urge to waste your time, you soon discover so many more useful ways to utilize your time here. And for now, it's best that I work towards fitting in, making friends, becoming known to my new home and community of Sahanivotry. I did get the trash out, and then promptly started it on fire. I remember the first discussion we had in PST (Pre-Service Training) as we talked about what happens to our trash - a few individuals were upset that the people here burned it. "So bad for the environment" was the cry. 

Yup. But there are no garbage trucks, no sanitation department (that I am aware of) - not here in the rural and outskirts of the largest cities. Even in Antsirabe (which is the second largest city in Madagascar) doesn't have garbage pickup as far as I know. There are heaps of trash on the side of the road here and there. And good luck in finding a trash can anywhere away from a franchised store. So burning the trash is what occurs here. So, I started a fire. Easier than I figured. I had a week's worth of trash. I think all the new things, (and specifically the packaging, tags, bags and wrappings that come with it ) I have bought is much more than what my co-workers and neighbors have to burn. Everything for purchase in town, other than some treats and soda containers, is packaging free. I've thus learned to carry around plastic sacks if I intend on getting a kilo of potatoes or tomatoes, or even a handful/canful of peanuts.

And everything here can have a second life. One of the objects I intended for the fire was a smaller bucket used to hold some of the paint I bought. My counterpart (her name evades me), asked if she could have it, then spent 15 minutes cleaning it of blue paint. No idea what she might want to use it for but I completely understand. I've been recycling almost everything I can such as plastic bags - as there is an extra charge for bags in most shops and stores. I've also held on to paper products as it is cheaper than going through rolls of paper towels to pick up or wipe up "Dobby's" droppings and urine. Speaking of which, I need to figure out how to potty train him. Not sure if he's capable of learning that at the moment. I'm wondering if a doggy door would be overkill for this place. And I'm not sure my landlord would appreciate ruining a perfectly good door for an animal's convenience not high on their list around here.

Back to the trash - I went around the CSB grounds and picked up trash which was considerable - especially just over the fence east of me. Or I should say, the broken down fence as so many use this way across the fields as a shortcut into town rather than take the road. It shortens the trip to town by three quarters. I'll have to ask Dr. Clertant if he'd prefer me to fix the fence or perhaps improve the downward climb to the field and continue to let people use it as a shortcut.

My next goal was a lengthy trip into town. I've been here more than a week and I have not yet spent considerable time meeting the good people of Sahanivotry. My purpose today is to greet everyone and stop and introduce myself wherever possible.

First stop - the corner shop that sells prepared food for quick meals. This is a common thing in Madagascar. Cooking food is a lengthy process. For many, especially workers, it is simpler to just find a vendor streetside or in a small "restaurant" that is everywhere. Most of the food is exhibited in glass cases. And nothing looks too hygienic.  Unless you see it freshly cooked, you never know exactly how long it's been sitting out. It goes without saying that you should count on it being cold. Here I saw they had some meat and separately some spaghetti noodles. Unfortunately, it also had some carrots and an undetermined greenish vegetable but I am determined. Maybe this could solve of my lack of eating varied filled meals. And the price is right - just a couple thousand ariary - less than a buck.

Sure, let's go for it. In training there was much caution against eating street food but I've been in country nearly four months now. I've been eating local foods at two different households (from my host families in Mantasoa and here) as well as the food served us at PCTC (Peace Corps Training Camp). I think my body has adjusted a little. I'm willing to risk a little sickness if in the process I can gain the trust of my new neighbors. "When in Sahanivotry - do as the Sahanivotrians."

It was fine and as usual, I draw a crowd wherever I go. Usually, I just give them my name, ask theirs and tell them a little about myself. Before long the conversation gets complicated and I'm at that disadvantage of having just a bare understanding of this language. I am surprised that I do hear often that I speak good Malagasy. I take that lightly. And I have several apps to aid me when it gets complicated.

As I walked up one side of the street and back the other, I would stop wherever there were adults, kids, teenagers, or elderly to talk to. I stopped at all the shack stores (as I call them - no disrespect, but it fits the bill descriptively). There is so little to purchase at even the most well stock shops. Soap, brushes, brooms, large bags of flour, sugar, and a variety of things I have yet to figure out, drinks (water, alcoholic and sodas), treats of many kinds - cookies, biscuits, some chocolate (small ones). For more variety, one has to either wait for the Tuesday market or make the two hour Taxi-brusse ride to Antsirabe. I also tried to purchase something at each of the shops. 

There are two meat sellers to be found in town - neither one is very clean or hygienic. They both have homemade flyswatters to keep the myriad flies and bugs from settling on the meat too long. Good luck with that. Nothing looks particularly appetizing. I eat meat and I am not exactly thrilled with the prospect of purchasing meat. Maybe I'll become a vegetarian? Not likely. At one shop, there was a pig sliced up the middle and they were processing its innards. Very photogenic but not very appetizing. I think I'll be eating meat once or twice a week in the future.

I discovered the village carpenter shop. They were finishing three lengthy pews for the church in the town south of us. The work looked primitive but solid. Still the builder. I'm very curious what they can build, what tools they use and if they have wood to buy. I discovered little on this first visit but I may be very interested in spending some time here helping and learning what they do and how they do it. I inquired about getting some rods for my window drapes. One of the gentlemen came back to my place to measure the windows. Then when it seemed obvious I could just buy three brooms and use the broom handles for less than half the price they were asking (which wasn't much), the decision was made instead to have them build me a bookcase and use the wood I already had. A second trip across that field shortcut and we retrieved half the wood planks I had Peace Corps originally buy me at installation.

40,000ar (about $9.25 or $14 if they used their wood) was the determined price for a bookcase 130 x 100 with four shelves. We drew up the plans on a sheet from my pocket notepad. I expected to be waiting till next week when to my surprise the guy dropped it off later this afternoon. The nice part about them doing it was that their cuts were straighter and they actually were able to sand down some of the wood with a power sander. All of this I could have done but don't have the tools or absolute talent for. Of course the piece they made for me had no strengthening supports so I added a couple pieces of wood to sturdy it and keep the bookcase from collapsing over time. I definitely need to spend some time with these guys.

A good day for connecting with the town.

New Digs

First meal in new place - Frites!

Saturday, 20 May 2023 (96)

Left about 7:30 by taxibruss for hour and a half trip to Antsirabe. Forgot my Peace Corps card so I ended up only drawing out my US funds. Had a long list of things I realize I now need. That's what getting here and seeing what works, what doesn't and what you wish you had. I got most of the items but still can use more. Looks like this is going to take a while.  I treated myself to a nice fried chicken meal. Still not a fan of tradition Malagasy meals including the rice.

The taxibruss coming and going insists on taking in more people than there are seats. And just when one or two exit - there are more to fill the spots along the way. And stops are fairly frequent. We'll pick up a large battery here, perhaps an empty water container to be filled at some point. And furniture and large bags of straw, hay or something I'm not even sure I know what it is. 

Sunday, 21 May 2023 (97)

It has been a long day and I am not likely eating enough. I had an orange this morning and then some Pomme Frites this evening. Just haven't made a lot of food and have limited things on hand. I probably should be buying some fruit for snacking on. I'll stock up on Tuesday - it's market day when people come from all around to sell their wares.

I left about 7:30 on the Peace Corps bike (and helmet) that I hadn't yet tried out. It's fine, though maybe my bike riding skills and my bottom isn't used to it. Like all new experiences here, one learns what is needed or required after one experiences the thing the first time. In my case, remembering to pack more liquids for the hour ride each way, or some tie-down straps for the saddle bag frame.

An hour ride for about maybe 15km. It seems mostly uphill there, so of course it will be downhill coming back. It's just up the main road except to two places that you need to get off the road to get around a 2-3 foot deep pothole 25-30ft long filled with water. Easier for me to navigate than the cars, trucks and semi-trucks. All the bridges here are single lane. If any of them go out there is no way to get up to Antsirabe for a while. There's one bridge bad enough they are already building a new one.

The chapel is at the far north end of Manadona. I was the first to arrive as I learned Sacrament starts at ten and not at nine. Introduced myself to most who arrived until I got pulled into the branch President's office. I gave him my membership number and info so they could get my membership records. Everyone was very pleasant (no surprise there). I was able to communicate the basics but not much beyond that. One guy spoke with me in length who knows some English from his missionary days in South Africa. He says I have a good Malagasy accent - encouraging. I think I'll try and be more prepared next Sunday.

There is only two hours but I sat in on a meeting before church that I have no idea what it was. Leadership? New members? No idea. They said something at the beginning of sacrament meeting that I sensed was about me. People were turning in their chairs and looking at me. I'm the only foreigner and American in the branch. No missionaries. The songs had no musical accompaniment and the chorister would sing a bar first to give us an idea of how the tune goes. All the songs are very familiar but I can't seem to place them. The Malagasy songbooks don't help. But I could follow and sing along fine. And I seem to know how to pronounce many of the words.

I am not sure how to add to the ward just yet. I do have my Google Translate app and occasionally will compliment someone on their smile or friendliness and maybe that's all I will ever be able to do. IT reminds me so much of all the things I can and cannot do here. It's just a lot of small things.

I've made it a game to say "Salama" to everyone I can on the way to and back from church. I figure if I only say hello and acknowledge a million people these two years, I will have done something. A very small thing but something.

Back at the new place I added more paint to the table and started painting my one kitchen wall. It'll need another day and a couple more coats of paint. I am bothered that the "Mavo Mavo" yellow is looking a little hospital sickly and not vibrant bright yellow, but it'll do.  Maybe a third color like orange or green will be necessary to brighten up this place. I am tired of living out of boxes and bags but the shelves will come as I keep painting. 

Dobby is doing better and wanting to get out there and find and eat chicken bones - or at least I think they are chicken bones. I'm also finding my shoes moved around so I know he's starting that chewing phase. She loves the cheese wedges I bought for me but I think it is the closest thing to milk I have right now - though I did buy a cheap bottle and powdered milk we'll get around to trying. I got her in a bright yellow flea collar. I only need a quarter of its length. He's really not going to be a big dog by the looks of it.

Dobby Arrives

Tuesday, 16 May 2023 (92)

Left about 7:30 this morning for the 4.5 hour drive to Antsirabe. We stopped in Ambatolampy which is known for their metalwork and I picked up half a dozen pots and pans for cooking with. I still could possibly use a good non-stick pan for frying eggs and such.

Once we got to town I had them drop me off at the Green Park Hotel where I resided last time I was here. I am staying in the same room again.

Spent the afternoon wandering the streets of Antsirabe again. Was here three separate days during site visit. Got a little more of my bearing here but am tired of window shopping. There doesn't appear to be anything of value for me to get now. Done a whole lot of shopping for installation. Probably spent way more than 5 million ariary. The Peace Corps only provides us with 2 million for installation.

Sam is wanting to pass his dog off to me. He is doing the vegetarian thing and doesn't want to buy and cook meat for the dog. I'm worried as he rescued it off the street if it is healthy. We'll try and bring it to the vet tomorrow if he can get it here.

Wednesday, 17 May 2023 (93)

Very busy. 

We hit more than a half dozen medical and police /gendarme agencies to give them my credentials and info on the off chance my health or security is in danger. Arsen did all the talking. I found it interesting that we are so official in presenting the volunteers to every part of the government to insure good relations as well as good safety. We also got me a tour of the main pharmacy here as well as the higher level medical provider should I come here for any treatment before being kicked up to Tana.

Sam came in from several hours south of my town Sahanivotry with the dog which is now officially named Dobby. He's looking a little sickly and undernourished. We did get it to the vet and it's first of four shots. Need to try and get it back in two or three weeks for the next one. The vet says it doesn't have Parvo and the shot it got should help with that and a few other issues. But it looks like it let it's mother a little too soon of you ask me.

I bought a lot of stuff today both with and without my installers. A small table and two chairs for about 160,000. I negotiated them down to 140,000 but paid them the 160,000 anyways. My new philosophy - Negotiate for a better cost but pay them more anyway - everyone wins. Got a second smart phone so I can have Telma and Orange phone services. Got most of my buckets and plastic containers including a PO for indoor bathroom use - 30,000. A new smart phone for 180,000. 61,000 for the first dog shot. Three more will be necessary every couple weeks or so. Blue, yellow and white paint for 201,000. We'll see how far it goes but I suspect we'll need more. 160,000 for meals for Sam, me, the installers. 820,000 spent today or about $189. I honestly don't know how the Peace Corps volunteers could manage on the 2,000,000 total they are given for installation.

Sam wanted to get out and see some nightlife. Unfortunately, it is a Wednesday night and much doesn't begin until 9pm around here. He was out while Dobby and I retired, though didn't sleep till he got back around midnight.

Thursday, 18 May 2023 (94)

It has been a couple busy two days. This morning Arsen and Jones (my installers) came by to pick up my two bags. Took a taxibusse with Dobby in her box in a big rice bag. I just said I was going to hold on to it for the trip. No one questioned what was in it. He only tried to stick his head out a couple time and didn't even whimper. He's still doing more sleep than I'd like. 

Met up with the installers in Sahanivotry where they were already at work adding hardware to the three windows and a new lock on the door. They set up my gas tank and stove though I know how to use that. I was also impressed with the brand new hospital bed that the CSB had for me. The very small foam mattress (maybe two inches thick) needs a another one under it for comfort. They had seven or eight though they have seen better days. It's also about the smallest single I've seen. But the head can be propped up. I'm happy with it though Dobby is not going to be jumping up anytime soon.

Had a meeting with the village leaders (my host family - the mayor and his wife), others who work at the CSB, neighbors, shop keepers and those in the village who were available. They did all the talking while I did a short introduction of maybe five or six sentences. Trying to get off on the right foot here. Arsen, my installer did much of the talking for the Peace Corps and translated what they were saying for me. They just need to know what the Peace Corps is, what I'll be doing here, and how I'll need a little help learning the language and the town. 

Living here for two years is starting to settle on me as I went around the town to buy a few food items I never got in Antsirabe. There are only a handful of places to buy much and I probably hit up most of them. It was funny because I asked to buy vary (rice) and he laughed when he told me they have no vary. He explained that everyone has their own vary as they all grow it. There's no market in town needing to sell it. Maybe on market day on Tuesday. I can wait until then though I wasn't going to buy much anyway. Mostly as a food for Dobby.

I felt good talking with the people. Even with my limited Malagasy, I was able to introduce myself again and attempt to tell them I am here for the next two years. My tutor gets here in about 10 days for two weeks but I'll be studying an hour or two everyday as well.

Back to my house (trano) which is really just a room about 11ft 2 inches by 22 ft and 8 inches. Bigger than I had on the mountain but a little more rustic. Cement walls, hopefully not a leaky roof and I do have power so that is great. I'm actually very pleased with the place. I always knew I'd be fixing it up. I am a little upset that the very large table is no longer here. I asked about it (or a table and Dr. Clertant helped me get a different but small table.) I'll take it but could use yet another one. 

Friday, 19 May 2023 (95)

Waking up with the rest of the town. How anyone thinks its ok to play their favorite music loud at 6:30 in the morning -and I'm talking about people in town, playing it several hundred meters away across a rice field and then some. Worse than any roosters or even the church recordings played yesterday for the ascension of Mary (a holiday) at some ungodly hour in the morning.

Spent the day getting all I've collected and bought for installation organized. Going through all the bags and boxes I brought here - going from 100lbs of stuff brought from America to probably over 500lbs of stuff and a bicycle. Took the small kitchen table out to sand and refinish the tabletop but it is too far gone for that. And it doesn't want to sand smooth. Either the sandpaper is not so great or the wood they have here is harder and different than elsewhere. I asked the installers to bring me a few items when they came back today. It seems they had nothing more to do, so they only came to bring me those items. I think they are milking this installation for an extra day or two. 

They picked up 6 - 12ft planks that had to be cut in half being too long for the top of their vehicle. Some shelf brackets - but now I realize I'm going to need a dozen or more. And the mosquite screning material. They also got me some potatoes which I haven't seen around town. I'll likely have to wait till next Tuesday (market day), and some oil (which I can find in town), and a six pack of water, which I can also find in town at a worse price. And I'm not likely to be drinking a lot of it.

I want to run back to Antsirabe early tomorrow and get back here in time to spend the afternoon painting the ceiling and possibly more. Then perhaps some painting on Sunday and be ready to hit the town with Dr. Clertant on Monday.

I did get the sink very cleaned. It was a real nightmare and I had originally thought I might just need to replace it but I managed to get it into a good looking condition. I was hoping my host family Mayor was coming today to change out my main ceiling light but was a no show. Dr. Clertant and I called him and asked him to come tomorrow afternoon when I'm back from Antsirabe.

Dobby is coming around as well. Today, he was out and exploring the yard - trying to make friends with my supervisors cat, chickens and ducks without success. Not sure he has a sense of the world yet but it was good to see him walking about and not constantly sleeping.