I apologize that I haven't made an entry in sooo long! There was so much anticipation waiting for Aubrey to show up on the 18th of December and then we had a fabulous time and then she left. Of course, it was so wonderful to have her here for Christmas and I wouldn't change a thing other than pray for all of them to come next Christmas but man, did I get down in the dumps after she left...
They (Peace Corps) tells us that we cycle through highs and lows and that the 5-6 month point is one of the most difficult. Hopefully this was the worst of it as I felt extremely lonesome and was struggling with just what it is I'm supposed to do... Feeling much better now after the reunion of our training group for more K'ekchi language training 3 days last week. Those young kids are really a shot in the arm and many of them shared similiar feelings ( or so they said to make me feel better). I've always enjoyed a very close relationship with my children as most of you know. Being away is HARD! But I had to re-examine why it was that I wanted to serve and THAT got me back on track...
Life in San Miguel is improving, I think. I have lots of acquaintances here...mostly neighbors that smile and greet me each day. I have been doing dental health workshops in the primary school and the children seem to be brushing their teeth. It's really easy to tell bc they all just do it out in their yard... or not! I have been working on a proposal to try to get a playground for the children here as there is no recreation whatsoever. That will take time. A year?
One of the things that got me down is the doggie situation. I guess the word is out in the dog community that the white lady will take care of them even when they are dying. I had three dogs in one week show up and die on my front porch. The first one was breathing hard. I petted her and gave her some water and she drank...went inside to change clothes and came out and she was dead. The second one did a lot of crying for two nights and then was dead in the morning. Third, pretty much the same sad story. At first this bothered me and of course, I was sad. Now I'm trying to see the 'good' in it and there's alot. These dogs know they are sick and dying...but they choose to spend their last hours in my company. I'm honored. P.S. The dog that sort of came with my house (Blackie) WAS sickly--mangey and parasites. I injected him twice in December and now he has gained weight and his hair has filled in! Looks terrific. Today I took a bike ride and he ran along the bike for several miles...good dog! They just crave affection and that's unheard of here (except the white lady!!!)
So things are looking up! I'll try to keep you better informed. I just miss you ALL alot. Thanks especially to Sue Brown who is such a die-hard friend. I've always known this but she never stops amazing me with her persistent support. Love you all!
Til next time, God bless us all... tracy
