This morning we had to wipe the table and chairs before starting because there was a layer of dust. We were introduced to the students during the morning assembly. They sang a song about Africa and Tanzania (the national anthem?) and the school song. We had to introduce ourselves in Kiswahili. Ezra accidentally said that he is studying Chemistry rather than teaching it - the students and us got a good laugh.
Our group was exhausted this afternoon so Anna let us out by early afternoon. I went on the internet for a bit then switched it over to Ezra (we shared an hour because it was cheaper). On the way home, I tried buying airmail envelopes but the people at the stationary shop had no idea what I was talking about. Oh well, guess I’ll have to go to the post office to get it.
At our request, our teacher had sent a message to the Kayenzi group that is also living in Kihonda. I met up w/ them just as they were receiving their bikes. They are the only group that lives so far from their school that they have to bike everyday. Today they had to walk and it took them a good 40 minutes. We ended up w/ 8 of us today throwing the Frisbee, which was great. It is a little tricky throwing into the wind but Colin and Jordon can throw well no matter what the conditions are. While walking home, I was stopped by a couple of Form 2 students from another school. One wanted to speak in English but I stuck to answering in Kiswahili as much as possible. Eric, Ghee, and Veronica caught up to me as a result and someone yelled out Doug’s name as we passed his house. He heard it and came to the window pretending he was in jail (most windows have bars on them). Walking home we figured out that Eric is around the corner from me and Ghee is at the end of that road.
When I was in the shower/bath today, the power went out. There was enough light through the window for me to finish but it took awhile to come back on. In the meantime, my mama showed me how to use my kerosene lamp. Although I remember using them as a kid, it was very helpful to review since it has been so long and mom used to do most of it. I also learned about cooking a bit. My family uses charcoal stoves that remind me of cooking on the coals while camping. Turns out that using oil helps the rice cook faster. Though oil seems to be used as the first ingredient in making everything. It probably does not add up to much, especially compared to American food but I am still surprised. I saw how different ingredients are added for a beef masala - seeing the spice made me realize why the food @ CCT reminded me of Indian food. I was glad to see hoe the food was prepared, where it comes from. Even though I don’t know all of the steps yet, I know some of what comes before I see it in the containers on the table. Also, I brought out the kitchen towels and oven mitts for my mama and she was very happy; she was using a towel to handle hot pans. Glad I chose that to bring as a gift and hoping I can get her one of better quality before I leave.
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