It turns out I can't speak french

I hope to god that changes. Aside from that, I am having a good exeperience so far. Granted, I only left 2 weeks ago but it honestly feel like it's been least two months. I am staying in a small village outside of Kpalime, in the plateau region of the country, with a wonderful host family who are pretty well off compared to everyone. I have electricity, a shower, a flush toilet, tv - it's pretty sweet. No latrines and bucket showers for me ... yet. So everything is good so far, this experience is a emotional rollercoster for sure. I am up and down several times a day but luckily lots of my frustrations steam from not being able to communicate, which thankfully I can change. Also, my entire group is suffering from GI distress which is not only comforting but bonding as well. I think I am getting better but my stomach is a little crampy. That's all for now, will probabaly start sending longer and elaborate but less frequent emails from here on out. I miss everyone and you should all come to Togo.

Togo 2008!
Natasha

Crap, I lied

You can subscribe, there is a link at the bottom of the page. So you all can do it your self. Super!

I will never have Yellow Fever, I think

Got here safe a few days ago: Africa is SUPER all in all , really nice and crazy warm. Arms hurt from shots, on french keyboard, will tell more soon, out of time, lots happening.


Thanks to everyone for their concern about my hair. Got more shampoo in states and it is looking luscious.

Later,
Natasha

You can't subscribe to my blog

It turns out that if you want to subscribe to my blog than you have to let me know and then I will be able to add you. So let me know people.

I told you I would start a blog

Okay, quick update:

* Missed not one, but two flights to D.C. on my way here. Sounds about right.

* Had the special shampoo and conditioner to maintain my beautiful hair in the hot Togo sun confiscated at the airport to avoid terrorism. Threw a fit. War is hell.

* Have meet all my fellow Peace Corps people who I will be spending the next few months with and they are awesome, really smart and funny and perverted. Interestingly enough there 30 women and only 5 men. I think they are pretty stoked.

* Fly out to Togo tomorrow, start malaria pills then and get vaccinated against just about everything. Now that I am actually here I am really excited and am really glad I am doing this. I feel invigorated. Please everyone, remember I said that. The next few weeks, er months, will be crazy busy but I will try to update as thing progress. Also, I will give you more info on what I will be doing and contact info very soon, I promise.

* On a more serious note, I really wanted to thank everyone for all the wonderful send offs and gifts over the last several weeks. I am so fortunate to have so much support and love, and it really just means they world to me. I especially want to thank everyone involved in the surprise party the day before I left. I was completely blown away and shocked and I cannot believe I missed all the clues and, you know, people telling me and stuff. It was wonderful and just want I needed. Thank you again.

Talk to you soon,

Natasha