My Address

Today is cloudy and even a little bit rainy, the latter of which is unusual for this time of year. I find both a welcome change, and I am making the most of the cloudy day to catch up on housework, planning, and I may even crack a book today. I received a phone call from my country director which put me in a good mood. It is not many jobs where you are excited to hear from your boss, but I suppose this one is an exception. We talked about potential work ideas and it was not only nice to hear English, but also to hear someone else who is excited about bringing improvements here. To top it off I got a good dose of flattery from him on the merits responsibility and language ability. Apparently, those two qualities are what led them to believe I am qualified to be serving out here on Mars. I was also glad to hear the (probably false) statement that I have one of the most remote sites in Peace Corps and that I must be extra careful. It made me feel a bit more rugged despite the fact that I have electricity, running water, and internet in my house. I can picture a volunteer in Peace Corps Kenya or something being unable to imagine the luxury I have here. All we would have in common is that we both still take bucket baths.
Work is good. I’ve been teaching English classes regularly, but I would really like to add more classes and information technology classes too. Last weeks meeting to secure the space for such was cancelled, due to insufficient turnout. I really have some good ideas to present to the board for the next meeting, but I feel that my age, specifically the lack thereof, is somewhat a disadvantage when trying to pitch ideas. Trying to make my ideas seem like someone elses is a challenge in English, doing so In Creole should be a real test.
A secondary group is forming in Cha De Igreja. It is an activities group to add life to the village started by a young girl and the principal of the school. Although this group meets more regularly, and considers me a founding member, they seem focused on starting a dance group. Although I agree with their intentions, I haven’t figured out what I can offer them. I told them if they wanted I could teach breakdancing/capoeria, but not much outside of that.
The group aims at doing other things too, but they don’t have the money to do them, nor the imagination to see that they can do things without it. I’m trying to pitch organized hikes, beach bonfires, and other activities as free alternatives, but being outspoken In the meetings is once again difficult due to my young age, my unfamiliarity with the workings of the village, and of course the language barrier.
Although no one is telling me I haven’t been doing enough, I have been holding myself accountable, and do feel there is something else I could be doing here. I just don’t know what or how. Outside of that, I can’t complain about anything. I get along well with the town, the weather is perfect, and I’ve taught some people to play chess so I can now pass the time. Thanks to Dustin for teaching me. I hike regularly and I am staying in pretty good shape, despite the inavailabilty of food. That’s all for now. I hope everyone back home is doing as well as I am.



My address ;
Thomas Grant Readle
Cha De Igreja
Ribeira Grande
Santo Antao
Cape Verde