Catching Up...

Hello Dear Readers,

I realize I have been a bit absent as of late. Wouldn’t you believe, I’ve been a little busy? This Peace Corps Volunteer actually has a social life too!

So where in the world have I been? Or more appropriately, where on this little island have I been?

For 4th of July weekend, I celebrated my American-ness with about 60 other gringos on the beautiful peninsula of Samaná. We all converged on a very quiet town on the end of the peninsula. It was almost as if we were at the edge of the world. On the 4th, we all escaped by boat to Playa Rincón, which has been deemed the most beautiful beach in this fair country. It was quite secluded (you only found gringos on this beach that day). We spent several hours sunbathing, ocean-bathing, and river-bathing (there was a very refreshing river that ran right into the ocean). That night, we celebrated with hamburgers and hot dogs, though I must say no one can beat my grandfather’s “cookout” burgers. After listening to some good ol’ fashioned American tunes by the likes of Michael Jackson and Madonna, we all went to the discoteca to partake in our newfound Dominican-ness.

The following week, I went to the capital to take care of some business. Many complain that the capital is the hottest part of this country, but I must say, the three days I was there were the most air-conditioned days I’ve had since I’ve been there. I don’t think I chanted my usual “Ah, hace calor. Hace calor.” once during those 3 days.

I am still working on my diagnostic. The conference to present my results is in less than 3 weeks. I’m ready to begin working on my projects, but my preoccupation with this diagnostic is taking up much of my time. However, the English classes I’ve been teaching give me a sense that I’m accomplishing something at least. Also, I’ve been planning an anniversary event at my center with the administrative committee. I feel a little bit like a producer, as if I’m working on a film set again. I’ve been offering my ideas, but I’m also learning to sit back and allow the committee to own this event.

So yeah, I’m hanging in there. As we like to say here, I’m always en la lucha (“in the fight”), whether it’s the heat, my communication mishaps, my desire for control, or my longing for comfort. But everyday I’m learning, and I’m getting a little wiser. And somewhere in all the work, I get my piece of paradise too.

Now, back to work…