This week was full of VSO events. First of all, there was a welcoming reception for our new Country Director. It was an official party inviting VSO’s partner NGOs and government officials. It was held at a private club in Georgetown. The picture below is taken at the party. To my right and above me are Elske and Marco, Dutch couple who lives upstairs from my apartment. To my left is Steven, British Deaf volunteer.
I took a leave from my work at the Union on Friday, and I attended VSO conference. Everyone was excited to get away from Georgetown, and it felt more like a school excursion rather than a conference. Accidents can always happen in this kind of trip, and this was no exception. Within twenty minutes of driving, the bus got broken down, and we had to get off and wait on the road side. Luckily, we managed to find minibuses that can take us to the destination before we got completely dried up under the sun.
The main objective of this conference was to share VSO Guyana’s Program Area Plans. VSO Guyana focuses on the area of education and disability. It was interesting to see how each placement relates to the wider goals and long term planning of the organization as whole.
Since my work is relatively slow at this moment, I volunteered to give a presentation in the afternoon session. This was to occupy myself and for the experience (it’s been a while since I made a presentation on an academic subject.) Although this part aimed at sharing skills and knowledge of volunteers who have expertise in different fields, it was just me and other person who offered to do it…
My topic was “Gender and Development”. In my workshop, I started with a question of “What is Gender?” I also explained briefly how the approach has shifted from “Women in Development” as well as some other useful concepts, such as practical gender needs vs. strategic interest etc. Actually, it was my first time to use a flipchart (I usually use PowerPoint), and I felt a bit nervous. To be honest, I have avoided doing this sort of brainstorming exercise by writing what participants say on the chart, because of my stupid fear of misspelling words in front of a large group (this is where my ESL side comes in…) This time, I didn’t allow myself to get away with not doing it.
I was a little nervous and hardly looked at my notes. I kept talking and apparently it was too fast for the sign language interpretation. The second segment was a group discussion utilizing case studies. I had to cut down some parts because we were behind in the schedule (the bus!), and it was unfortunate that we didn’t have enough time to discuss. Nevertheless, it was a good experience for me, and hopefully more people give considerations to their work from the gender perspective. I was happy that some people gave me some feedback saying my workshop was very good and interesting.
We stayed over one night in the hotel. We swam in a tiny pool, played ping-pong and saw beautiful stars from the rooftop (I even saw a shooting star★.) It was indeed a very fun weekend.
dimanche, octobre 30, 2005
samedi, octobre 29, 2005
VSO あれこれ
今週はイベントが盛りだくさんでした。まずは、木曜日の晩にVSOガイアナのディレクターの着任のレセプション。これはジョージタウン内のクラブを貸切、VSOのパートナーNGOや政府関係者などが招待される公式なパーティーでした。もちろんVSOのボランティアやインターンも招かれていたので、私も久しぶりにメークをして出かけました。１枚目の写真はその時のもの。一緒に写っているのはうちの２階に住んでいるオランダ人のカップル（私の右と上）、エルスクとマルコ。左側はイギリス人のろう唖者のスティーブンです。
金曜日は仕事にお休みを頂いて、VSOの会議に出席しました。ボランティアは原則として全員参加です。でも会議とは言ってもさながら遠足みたいなもので、和気あいあいとバスで目的地のホテルまで向かいました。こういうイベントにはハプニングは付き物。案の定、２０分も走らない内にバスがエンストを起こし、私達はバスを降りる羽目になってしまいました。幸いにも空いている乗り合いバスが通りかかったので炎天下の日干しは間逃れて、バスに分乗し無事目的地へ到着。
この会議の主な目的はVSOのこれからのプロジェクトの方針や進路についての説明やプロジェクトの評価方法などの討論でした。VSOガイアナは教育と身体障害者の援助に力を入れており、ボランティア一人一人の仕事内容がどう機関全体の目標と繋がっているのかを見るのはとても興味深く、また意義のあるものなのかを実感させられました。
私の仕事は今のところ停滞気味なので、午後のセッションにプレゼンテーションをするのを買って出ました（暇つぶしと経験の為）。これは色々な分野での経験が深いボランティア達、個々の知識や技能を共有しようという目的です。でも結局、申し出たのは私ともう一人の男の子だけ。
私のトピックは“ジェンダーと開発”（もちろん！）。最初にジェンダーとは何か？という問いかけから始め、“女性と開発”の方法論から推移した経緯や、他のコンセプトなど短くまとめて説明しました。実はフリップチャートを使ってのプレゼンは初めてで（いつもはパワーポイント）、かなりドキドキでした。特にフリップチャートに参加者の意見などを書くブレーンストーミングは、正直に言うと、大きいグループを前に単語の綴りを間違えたらどうしようなどとバカな心配をしてしまうので今まで避けていました。なので今回初めての挑戦。ちょっと緊張していたので手元のカンペもろくに見ず、しどろもどろながらもベラベラしゃべり、手話通訳者にもっとゆっくり話して下さいと怒られてしまいました．．．。言い忘れた内容も多々。後半は参加者にグループ毎にケーススタディを用いて話し合いをしてもらいました。バスの故障のせいで時間を短縮を余儀なくされたので、充分に一つ一つのトピックについて話し合えなかったのが残念。でも何人かの人に、とてもためになった、良かったよと言ってもらえたので嬉しいです。私としては良い経験になったし、少しでも多くの人にジェンダーの観点を仕事に取り入れて欲しいと思います。
会議の後、そのホテルに１泊して帰ってきました。噴水かと思えるほど小さいプールに入ったり、卓球で遊んだり、屋上から星を眺めたり（流れ星見たよ★キレーイ）して楽しんで帰ってきました。
mercredi, octobre 26, 2005
Photos
I figured out how to re-size photos． I will be updating past entries with some photos.
デジカメの写真のサイズの変え方がようやく分かったので、これからは過去のエントリーに写真を加えていくつもりです。お楽しみに！すっかり日に焼けた私です。自宅にて。
dimanche, octobre 23, 2005
Only Japanese
Since I have posted the negative entry last week, I have received some very nice e-mails. Some friends really tried to cheer me up by saying so many sweet things about me, and it was so touching. My mother also read it and even said I could come home if it is too hard. I feel a little bit bad that I made these people worried, but at a same time it is thanks to them that I could embark on these could-be-hard challenges. Support from everyone that is. I hope I didn’t over-dramatize it, but I thought it would be nice to be honest and “real” and perhaps more personal. After all, it is only my close friends and family members who read this.
I figure, if the slow work is more or less the only complaint I have, that is not too bad. I am not good at the waiting, but I always try to somehow get out of the “waiting room” (please refer to the book “Oh the places you go”.) This can be done by focusing on other things, such as social life and my other learning objectives. I started to make a list of my personal as well as professional goals and objectives for this six-month placement. In conclusion, I am ok. I may still complain about some other things, but I hope you bear with me.
I finally got connected to Internet at home, and I am so excited about it. Now, I can type in Japanese, so I can write e-mails and blog entries in Japanese. It has been a while since I last spoke Japanese, and I need to be more in touch with my "Japanese self.” I found out that a representative of JICA has gone back home last month, and I am officially the only Japanese person in Guyana other than a few who came for a fishing business in 70’s (not too sure) got married to a local woman and stayed here ever since. Oh I feel very unique but ironic that I am always called “Chinee” anyways. I will try to make this site as bilingual as possible.
Only Japanese
先週、落ち込んだ様子をブログに書いた為、友達や家族に心配かけてしまったようです。いくつか温かい励ましのメールを頂きました。うちの母にかけては辛かったらいつでも帰ってきても良いよとまで言ってくれました。みんなの応援のおかげて頑張れるんだなあとしみじみと感じさせれました。おおげさに書いてしまったかもしれないですが、何でも悪いことでも正直に書いた方がおもしろいだろうと思ったからでもあります。
仕事があまり前進してないことだけが唯一の不満なら大したことではないんじゃないかと思い直しました。ただ待っているだけなのは嫌なので、生活の他の面（交友関係や他の勉強）を充実させることで解消することにしました。なので私は大丈夫です。気持ちの持ちようですからね。これからも浮き沈みがあるとは思いますが話半分で聞き流して下さい。
インターネットを自宅に繋いで晴れて日本語でメールやブログの更新ができるようになり本当に嬉しいです。長らく日本語で話していないので、日本語で気持ちを表現できるだけで違います。聞くところによるとJICAの調査員の男性が先月帰国されたらしく、現在、私がガイアナ唯一人の日本人らしいです。（本当か？！）詳しいことは知らないのですが７０年代に漁業関係でこちらに来て、現地人と結婚し永住した日本人男性は数人いらっしゃるらしいです。でも彼らは数に入っていません。唯一の日本人でも、皮肉にも毎日毎日、「中国人」と呼ばれていますが．．．。
このブログを２ヶ国語にするには、翻訳するのが難しいのと時間がかかるのに今気付きました。なので、かなり適当な意訳ですがご了承下さい。日本語→英語はもっと難しいです。
仕事があまり前進してないことだけが唯一の不満なら大したことではないんじゃないかと思い直しました。ただ待っているだけなのは嫌なので、生活の他の面（交友関係や他の勉強）を充実させることで解消することにしました。なので私は大丈夫です。気持ちの持ちようですからね。これからも浮き沈みがあるとは思いますが話半分で聞き流して下さい。
インターネットを自宅に繋いで晴れて日本語でメールやブログの更新ができるようになり本当に嬉しいです。長らく日本語で話していないので、日本語で気持ちを表現できるだけで違います。聞くところによるとJICAの調査員の男性が先月帰国されたらしく、現在、私がガイアナ唯一人の日本人らしいです。（本当か？！）詳しいことは知らないのですが７０年代に漁業関係でこちらに来て、現地人と結婚し永住した日本人男性は数人いらっしゃるらしいです。でも彼らは数に入っていません。唯一の日本人でも、皮肉にも毎日毎日、「中国人」と呼ばれていますが．．．。
このブログを２ヶ国語にするには、翻訳するのが難しいのと時間がかかるのに今気付きました。なので、かなり適当な意訳ですがご了承下さい。日本語→英語はもっと難しいです。
vendredi, octobre 21, 2005
mercredi, octobre 19, 2005
Class under Moonlight
Yesterday evening we had the longest blackout since I got here. The light went off around 5:30 and didn't come back until 8:00. Me and my roommate were hosting this week's Sign Language Club at our place. It went dark, when I was cooking my first attempt of curried Channa (chickpeas) for the potluck. The power outage is such a daily occurrence here, so it is no surprise to me. I just was not sure if anyone will turn up in the darkness. I was sitting outside waiting for people and saw a few fireflies. They were so pretty. This is something you don't get to see unless there is a blackout.
After all, about 12 people showed up with their various gourmet dinner. We ended up holding the class outside in the courtyard, as the house was too hot with no fan. We dragged all the chairs outside and pooled all of our flush lights and emergency lights (you need to see to sign!). The topics was basic verbs, such as want, take, give etc.
After all, about 12 people showed up with their various gourmet dinner. We ended up holding the class outside in the courtyard, as the house was too hot with no fan. We dragged all the chairs outside and pooled all of our flush lights and emergency lights (you need to see to sign!). The topics was basic verbs, such as want, take, give etc.
mardi, octobre 18, 2005
I miss…
I do not want this blog to just draw a rosy picture of how it is to work in the international development. Sure, it is a great experience that you get to travel to other countries, and it can be very gratifying. But, I don’t think anyone can say that they enjoy each and every second of it.
I feel a bit down today. It is probably because I spoke to my boyfriend in Canada last night. The fact that my work slowed down a little doesn’t help. And then, I start missing things I don’t have. I miss taking hot shower. I miss cool air. I miss being able to take a walk in the evening (you can’t walk after dark here). I miss walking in a street without being constantly called “Chinee girl.” I miss buying nice pastries like pain au chocolat on weekends. I miss being able to have autonomy and freedom to do what I want at work.
I am used to having freedom to initiate any new projects, which I think, help for the organization as long as they fit with the mandate. Now I have lots of independence at work, but it simply means there is no supervision. I tried to speak to the General Secretary about starting up a newsletter for U. members. He gave me a long speech about something, which sounded like it may lead to either “yes, let’s do ir” or “no, we can’t”. However, at the end I was not sure what the answer was, and I thought it probably meant no. I was tired and puzzled. It is hard to have any discussion in a situation where the fan is blowing loudly and person talks in a low voice with Guyanese accent.
I am still waiting to go visit other regions to conduct consultations with teachers, and I am very much looking forward to it. I could work on the report, but I need to complete the consultation first. I have to wait until arrangements are made. I don’t like to be at mercy of other people’s decision. (Then again, how naïve can I be? This is what people normally call work.) Nevertheless, I knew this. I knew it would be like this, so I should be ok.
Above everything, I miss my boyfriend and friends. Once a friend of mine said to me “you must be so used to being away from him by now.” (Because I am always working/ studying in other cities or countries.) People think I am “Miss Independent”, but it is not true unfortunately. At every good bye, I get all emotional and teary, all the girlie stuff, but I can’t help it. It does not get any easier.
Calling internationally is expensive. I buy a calling card of about $6 CAD, which allows me to talk about 20 minutes, using a public phone OUTSIDE. I can’t call late at night, and it gives me less than 10 mins if I use this card with a regular land line at home. It is not any cheaper when you call from Canada. There is no time difference between Guyana and Canada, but coordination a timing of calls can be tricky.
It’s fun to complain every once in a while, and “raise awareness” about reality of international work.
I feel a bit down today. It is probably because I spoke to my boyfriend in Canada last night. The fact that my work slowed down a little doesn’t help. And then, I start missing things I don’t have. I miss taking hot shower. I miss cool air. I miss being able to take a walk in the evening (you can’t walk after dark here). I miss walking in a street without being constantly called “Chinee girl.” I miss buying nice pastries like pain au chocolat on weekends. I miss being able to have autonomy and freedom to do what I want at work.
I am used to having freedom to initiate any new projects, which I think, help for the organization as long as they fit with the mandate. Now I have lots of independence at work, but it simply means there is no supervision. I tried to speak to the General Secretary about starting up a newsletter for U. members. He gave me a long speech about something, which sounded like it may lead to either “yes, let’s do ir” or “no, we can’t”. However, at the end I was not sure what the answer was, and I thought it probably meant no. I was tired and puzzled. It is hard to have any discussion in a situation where the fan is blowing loudly and person talks in a low voice with Guyanese accent.
I am still waiting to go visit other regions to conduct consultations with teachers, and I am very much looking forward to it. I could work on the report, but I need to complete the consultation first. I have to wait until arrangements are made. I don’t like to be at mercy of other people’s decision. (Then again, how naïve can I be? This is what people normally call work.) Nevertheless, I knew this. I knew it would be like this, so I should be ok.
Above everything, I miss my boyfriend and friends. Once a friend of mine said to me “you must be so used to being away from him by now.” (Because I am always working/ studying in other cities or countries.) People think I am “Miss Independent”, but it is not true unfortunately. At every good bye, I get all emotional and teary, all the girlie stuff, but I can’t help it. It does not get any easier.
Calling internationally is expensive. I buy a calling card of about $6 CAD, which allows me to talk about 20 minutes, using a public phone OUTSIDE. I can’t call late at night, and it gives me less than 10 mins if I use this card with a regular land line at home. It is not any cheaper when you call from Canada. There is no time difference between Guyana and Canada, but coordination a timing of calls can be tricky.
It’s fun to complain every once in a while, and “raise awareness” about reality of international work.
lundi, octobre 17, 2005
Happy Anniversary
This Saturday was my one-month anniversary in Guyana. Strangely, I feel like I have been here much longer than that, whether it is good or bad.
If you ask me how Georgetown is… I may have to say that it is not too nice. It is hot& humid. It is dirty and there are litters everywhere. The water canal system makes it even worse, because the stagnant water is so dirty and smelly.
You have to go refill a big bottle of water for drinking every four days. The tap water is brown. You need to boil and filter the water. There are so many hateful mosquitoes and cockroaches in the house.
Sure it is not the most comfortable lifestyle, but it is not as bad as it sounds (?). I am trying to think of it this way. It is a combination of camping, going to your grandma’s house in countryside during a summer vacation and Japan 20 years ago.
Twenty years ago in Japan, we didn’t have air-conditioning in every room. We often slept with your fan on. We used to have these smelly and nasty water ditches along the road, where tadpoles were swimming.
When you go camping, you may not get to take an adequate shower. At the end of the day you are so tired, so you sleep ok anyways even if you feel a bit dirty or not comfortable. You have to bring your own drinking water.
In countryside, there are many bugs, and your bed may smell a bit moldy. If I think this way, I can quite take it.
There are other things that remind me of “good old” Japan. Things like sodas come in glass bottles and children playing and running around in a street. This is before my time, but powder milk (skim milk) is commonly used.
There are two things that I REALLY do not enjoy; these are traffic and being called “Chinee girl”. I will take another opportunity to elaborate on the topics.
If you ask me how Georgetown is… I may have to say that it is not too nice. It is hot& humid. It is dirty and there are litters everywhere. The water canal system makes it even worse, because the stagnant water is so dirty and smelly.
You have to go refill a big bottle of water for drinking every four days. The tap water is brown. You need to boil and filter the water. There are so many hateful mosquitoes and cockroaches in the house.
Sure it is not the most comfortable lifestyle, but it is not as bad as it sounds (?). I am trying to think of it this way. It is a combination of camping, going to your grandma’s house in countryside during a summer vacation and Japan 20 years ago.
Twenty years ago in Japan, we didn’t have air-conditioning in every room. We often slept with your fan on. We used to have these smelly and nasty water ditches along the road, where tadpoles were swimming.
When you go camping, you may not get to take an adequate shower. At the end of the day you are so tired, so you sleep ok anyways even if you feel a bit dirty or not comfortable. You have to bring your own drinking water.
In countryside, there are many bugs, and your bed may smell a bit moldy. If I think this way, I can quite take it.
There are other things that remind me of “good old” Japan. Things like sodas come in glass bottles and children playing and running around in a street. This is before my time, but powder milk (skim milk) is commonly used.
There are two things that I REALLY do not enjoy; these are traffic and being called “Chinee girl”. I will take another opportunity to elaborate on the topics.
vendredi, octobre 14, 2005
Guilt
Last week I singed up for a swimming pool and a gym in a fancy hotel. Many VSO’s joined as a group, so we had a discount. When I jumped in the pool, I finally felt clean.
I certainly do have shower at home, but the water has iron odor and yellowish-brownish color to it. You are not supposed to drink it, but it is not dirty water. It just does not feel clean.
It is such a nice place, and it almost made me forget that I was in Guyana. Then again, I felt guilty. I felt like I am such a hypocritical and arrogant expat, who is enjoying, to a local standard, an expensive and luxurious thing. You are here to assist the local people and live among them, and you are enjoying something that most local people wouldn’t afford. But, this has been one of the best treats (besides ordering pizza from Pizza Hat!) for me, and I think I can allow myself to have this pleasure..
I will try to maximize the membership, at least. I went to swim both Saturday and Sunday. It’s a kidney shape pool, but I can still so dome laps. My routine is that I swim a bit, sit to do some reading and swim some more. I am hoping that I will be in a good shape if I swim three times a week.
***Thank you very much for those who have donated to VSO on my behalf. I will be sending you postcards shortly as I promised. However, the mailing system is not as reliable here, so it may get lost on the way to you. I have not reached the amount ($500) yet, and am still accepting donations. If you would like to help, please visit http://www.vsocan.org and remember to put my name. (also drop me a line saying that you donated, so that I can send you a postcard) Sorry, my frineds in Japan who offered, but paying by a credit card is the only way.***
mercredi, octobre 12, 2005
Teachers’ issues are women’s issues
This is my second week to actually work in the union office. My colleague has gone back to UK and now I am left to be on my own. It is quite interesting to say the least. I am in the small office with the General Secretary of the union. The Deputy General Secretary has a desk there, but I have not seen her come in. I am working in a hot office, with a noisy fan constantly blowing to my face. People are coming in and out, because the one and only fridge is here. Secretaries come to this room in the afternoon to watch TV, and I just witnessed them making alcoholic beverages (rum) with a small bottle kept in the GS’s drawer. You can see that the atmosphere is pretty relaxed.
I am lucky compared to some other VSO’s; I have at least my own desk and a computer with an occasional Internet connection (I have to use the phone line of GS, so I try not to use it when he is there.) Cold water and soft drinks are available. The toilet somewhat flushes, and I can wash my hands.
What I have been doing is reading some pertinent documents, typing up some stuff and socializing with office staff. I have gone to Region 4 last week for consultation with teachers. It seems like I will be still traveling to other areas to speak to more teachers in order to have a proper representation of all voices in different regions. This means I will be flying in the toy plane, again…
Today, I had an interesting meeting/ interview with the chairperson of Women’s Committee of the union as part of the needs assessment. I have always worked with women’s issues, and this is my personal as well as professional interest. When I was presented with this placement with the union, I was a bit disappointed because it seemed less relevant to my experience. However, they have identified that I have “expertise” in the grant proposal development, and this is why they wanted me. To be frank, I am not comfortable with the term “expertise”. I use it often, but when it is used on me, it is rather overwhelming. I guess it is OK, since I did write grant proposals for my previous work and other volunteer work (and got $$), and whatever I do not know now, I will learn, right? My kind roommate already offered to proofread my writing, as you can probably tell from reading this that I badly need it …
Anyhow, I realized teachers’ issues are women’s issues. I have not confirmed statistics yet, but I was told over 90% of teachers in government schools is women. This phenomenon of “feminization of teaching profession” has a negative effect of the salary and benefits. Many men either choose to leave the profession or not to enter it, because it really does not pay sufficiently. The misconception is that women can have “SPPLEMENTARY” salary in addition to their husband’s, while the reality is that those women are often the head of household trying to feed the whole family. The chairperson I have interviewed said, “If 90% of teachers are men and not the other way around, the working condition would be much better.” and I strongly agree with her view.
I am lucky compared to some other VSO’s; I have at least my own desk and a computer with an occasional Internet connection (I have to use the phone line of GS, so I try not to use it when he is there.) Cold water and soft drinks are available. The toilet somewhat flushes, and I can wash my hands.
What I have been doing is reading some pertinent documents, typing up some stuff and socializing with office staff. I have gone to Region 4 last week for consultation with teachers. It seems like I will be still traveling to other areas to speak to more teachers in order to have a proper representation of all voices in different regions. This means I will be flying in the toy plane, again…
Today, I had an interesting meeting/ interview with the chairperson of Women’s Committee of the union as part of the needs assessment. I have always worked with women’s issues, and this is my personal as well as professional interest. When I was presented with this placement with the union, I was a bit disappointed because it seemed less relevant to my experience. However, they have identified that I have “expertise” in the grant proposal development, and this is why they wanted me. To be frank, I am not comfortable with the term “expertise”. I use it often, but when it is used on me, it is rather overwhelming. I guess it is OK, since I did write grant proposals for my previous work and other volunteer work (and got $$), and whatever I do not know now, I will learn, right? My kind roommate already offered to proofread my writing, as you can probably tell from reading this that I badly need it …
Anyhow, I realized teachers’ issues are women’s issues. I have not confirmed statistics yet, but I was told over 90% of teachers in government schools is women. This phenomenon of “feminization of teaching profession” has a negative effect of the salary and benefits. Many men either choose to leave the profession or not to enter it, because it really does not pay sufficiently. The misconception is that women can have “SPPLEMENTARY” salary in addition to their husband’s, while the reality is that those women are often the head of household trying to feed the whole family. The chairperson I have interviewed said, “If 90% of teachers are men and not the other way around, the working condition would be much better.” and I strongly agree with her view.
lundi, octobre 10, 2005
Food
I would like to write about food in Guyana in general and my diet today, since some of you have asked me about it. I can say that I have been eating fairly well in Guyana.
My day starts as early as 6:45, because it is too hot to sleep in and there is too much noise outside, such as dogs barking and neighbors cooking. I leave for work around 8:15, and this give me enough time to have a nice breakfast, which I rarely did during my working days in Canada. I have tea, fruit juice, some fruits (banana, orange or mango) and toasts with peanut butter. I never really cared for peanut butter when I was in Canada, but now I love it. It’s funny, but I think familiarity gives some comfort… I do not own a toaster, so what I use instead is a roti pan. This makes much better toasts than some of toasters I had in Canada!! I also experimented French toast on this pan, and it turned out not bad at all.
I usually eat out for lunch. You can find very good food for about G$ 300 (equivalent of $2 CAD.) Typical dishes would be rice cook-up with fried fish or chicken, roti with curried chickpeas, Chinese noodle with fried veggie and so forth. Most restaurants have wonderful freshly squeezed fruit juice of all kinds. The food is not as spicy as expected. You can just add spicy chilly sauce as you wish.
I cook dinner at home. Some items that are easily available at home are either too expensive or not accessible, so I have to improvise a lot. Additionally, compromises need to be made between my Japanese/ Canadian cooking and Kenyan one with Penina’s dislikes. For example, she is not used to eating sea-fish, and she is allergic to eggs.
There is a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables in a market; you just have to figure out what they are and how to cook them.
Here are some of the things I have made:
- Italian Caponata (I am not sure about spelling but tomato based vegetable stew)
- Cream of Pumpkin Soup
- Calaloo (similar to spinach), onion bread-pizza on a frying pan
- Pasta
- Home made roast peanuts (the first time I tried this!!)
- Home made lemonade with lime
Penina has cooked some Kenyan food, such as Chapattis (flat round bread), plantain, vegetable pilaf, boiled beans, etc.
I am feeling hungry now….
My day starts as early as 6:45, because it is too hot to sleep in and there is too much noise outside, such as dogs barking and neighbors cooking. I leave for work around 8:15, and this give me enough time to have a nice breakfast, which I rarely did during my working days in Canada. I have tea, fruit juice, some fruits (banana, orange or mango) and toasts with peanut butter. I never really cared for peanut butter when I was in Canada, but now I love it. It’s funny, but I think familiarity gives some comfort… I do not own a toaster, so what I use instead is a roti pan. This makes much better toasts than some of toasters I had in Canada!! I also experimented French toast on this pan, and it turned out not bad at all.
I usually eat out for lunch. You can find very good food for about G$ 300 (equivalent of $2 CAD.) Typical dishes would be rice cook-up with fried fish or chicken, roti with curried chickpeas, Chinese noodle with fried veggie and so forth. Most restaurants have wonderful freshly squeezed fruit juice of all kinds. The food is not as spicy as expected. You can just add spicy chilly sauce as you wish.
I cook dinner at home. Some items that are easily available at home are either too expensive or not accessible, so I have to improvise a lot. Additionally, compromises need to be made between my Japanese/ Canadian cooking and Kenyan one with Penina’s dislikes. For example, she is not used to eating sea-fish, and she is allergic to eggs.
There is a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables in a market; you just have to figure out what they are and how to cook them.
Here are some of the things I have made:
- Italian Caponata (I am not sure about spelling but tomato based vegetable stew)
- Cream of Pumpkin Soup
- Calaloo (similar to spinach), onion bread-pizza on a frying pan
- Pasta
- Home made roast peanuts (the first time I tried this!!)
- Home made lemonade with lime
Penina has cooked some Kenyan food, such as Chapattis (flat round bread), plantain, vegetable pilaf, boiled beans, etc.
I am feeling hungry now….
vendredi, octobre 07, 2005
Join the Club!!
One of the unexpected things that I would be doing Guyana is learning American Sign Language. In our group of VSO’s (those who came August- September) there are two British deaf boys, who are working for the Community Based Rehabilitation Centre in Georgetown.
My mother knows Japanese Sign Language, and so does my youngest sister to some extent. I remember my mother told me that each language has its own set of sign language, as signs are often very cultural. There is a difference even between British and American sign languages.
People other than me and my roommate are already advanced, since they all lived in a hotel together first week and a half. They started a sign language club, and we meet every Tuesday night to have a potluck and learn sign language. Penina and I have quite a bit of catching up to do. Now I know alphabets and some words in sickness and food departments. It is difficult but fun to learn. Cool to be able to spell my name in the sign language. I also have a sign name, which is “m” hand sign with the gesture of taking a photo (they asked me what my hobby is)
I asked one of more advanced-level people to give a sort of crush course, so that we can keep up with “conversations.” There is not much I can do with words about food and being sick… I can’t keep spelling everything, and besides I am not the best when it comes to spelling. I am happy to be sensitized to issues of deaf people, as well. A colleague from my previous work was visually impaired, and I found it so enriching to work with her. I came to Guyana intending to study Spanish, but never thought that I would learn sign language. I am still trying to sign up for Spanish, but hopefully I can have basic conversation in sign language by the end of my placement. And then, I can talk to my mother about differences, which will be very interesting.
My mother knows Japanese Sign Language, and so does my youngest sister to some extent. I remember my mother told me that each language has its own set of sign language, as signs are often very cultural. There is a difference even between British and American sign languages.
People other than me and my roommate are already advanced, since they all lived in a hotel together first week and a half. They started a sign language club, and we meet every Tuesday night to have a potluck and learn sign language. Penina and I have quite a bit of catching up to do. Now I know alphabets and some words in sickness and food departments. It is difficult but fun to learn. Cool to be able to spell my name in the sign language. I also have a sign name, which is “m” hand sign with the gesture of taking a photo (they asked me what my hobby is)
I asked one of more advanced-level people to give a sort of crush course, so that we can keep up with “conversations.” There is not much I can do with words about food and being sick… I can’t keep spelling everything, and besides I am not the best when it comes to spelling. I am happy to be sensitized to issues of deaf people, as well. A colleague from my previous work was visually impaired, and I found it so enriching to work with her. I came to Guyana intending to study Spanish, but never thought that I would learn sign language. I am still trying to sign up for Spanish, but hopefully I can have basic conversation in sign language by the end of my placement. And then, I can talk to my mother about differences, which will be very interesting.
jeudi, octobre 06, 2005
Work
After Gilly and I cam back from the needs assessment trip, we locked ourselves in a meeting room of VSO (air-conditioned!! this is not much of a torture, is it?) to complete the interim report to be presented to the executive officers of the Union. Gilly already started to work on several sections, and according to what we heard and observed in our previous trip, we have added some more items on the list, such as training and services to members. I assisted her with the completion of the report, and I had some input to it. I felt thrown into the task initially, but going to the consultation with Gilly really gave me good insight of the situation.
We worked on the report for two days, and on Wednesday it had to be presented to the executive members. Although at that point I already worked nearly a week and half, this was the first time when I went to their office and got formally introduced to the staff and executive members. Since it was my first meeting, I did not have to do much. I gave a short introduction about myself, my role, background etc, and I assisted in a participatory exercise after the presentation. Gilly did a fantastic job in presenting the summary of needs assessment, and it was very well received by members.
People have decided to call me michi, which is quite fine with me. I actually enjoy variations of my name, how people pronounce it or place an accent differently. What I do not like it when people are not sure about my name (I know it is hard) and as a result kind of feel awkward to speak to me. There is one person who is totally convinced that my name is Michelle, and I have given up on correcting him…
I felt relieved to finally see the people whom I would work with and the office.
We worked on the report for two days, and on Wednesday it had to be presented to the executive members. Although at that point I already worked nearly a week and half, this was the first time when I went to their office and got formally introduced to the staff and executive members. Since it was my first meeting, I did not have to do much. I gave a short introduction about myself, my role, background etc, and I assisted in a participatory exercise after the presentation. Gilly did a fantastic job in presenting the summary of needs assessment, and it was very well received by members.
People have decided to call me michi, which is quite fine with me. I actually enjoy variations of my name, how people pronounce it or place an accent differently. What I do not like it when people are not sure about my name (I know it is hard) and as a result kind of feel awkward to speak to me. There is one person who is totally convinced that my name is Michelle, and I have given up on correcting him…
I felt relieved to finally see the people whom I would work with and the office.
mardi, octobre 04, 2005
Talking about the weather
When I stepped out of the plane upon arrival in Guyana, I could feel all my pores opened up. It is very hot and humid. The temperature is always above 32 or so during daytime, and even at night it does not go below 28. I remember that my mother used to tell me not to go out on a very hot day, since it is too tiring. Unfortunately, I do not have a choice here.
The city where I come from in Japan, Kyoto has a horrible summer similar to the weather here. I can stand the heat and humidity, but what I cannot bear is the strong sunlight. When I go outside, I apply sunscreen cream, wear a hat and in addition hold a cheap umbrella to avoid direct sun. I know I look silly, but I don't care.
I used to complain that during Canadian winter, I have to wear so many layers. Before leaving the house, I need a hat, scarf, gloves, big winter boots and wear a hood of my jacket. I do not mind the winter but I just don't like these "heavy" equipments. In the hot weather, you would imagine I don't need anything, but it is not the case. I take shower, put baby powder, sunscreen and spray mosquito repellent. I no longer know if any of these work at all when mixed. After this tiresome procedure, probably all get washed off within 20 min because of sweating a lot. Is there any point at all to this? I wonder. I feel extremely sticky all day because of the mixture of chemical things and my sweat. I wish someone can invent three in one product. I bet Japanese people already have one, as they are always ahead of everyone else in this type of things.
*Today I got my first letter from Canada!! How nice! It just made my day. My parents back in Japan called me last night, and I realized this was the first time I utter any Japanese words since my arrival.
The city where I come from in Japan, Kyoto has a horrible summer similar to the weather here. I can stand the heat and humidity, but what I cannot bear is the strong sunlight. When I go outside, I apply sunscreen cream, wear a hat and in addition hold a cheap umbrella to avoid direct sun. I know I look silly, but I don't care.
I used to complain that during Canadian winter, I have to wear so many layers. Before leaving the house, I need a hat, scarf, gloves, big winter boots and wear a hood of my jacket. I do not mind the winter but I just don't like these "heavy" equipments. In the hot weather, you would imagine I don't need anything, but it is not the case. I take shower, put baby powder, sunscreen and spray mosquito repellent. I no longer know if any of these work at all when mixed. After this tiresome procedure, probably all get washed off within 20 min because of sweating a lot. Is there any point at all to this? I wonder. I feel extremely sticky all day because of the mixture of chemical things and my sweat. I wish someone can invent three in one product. I bet Japanese people already have one, as they are always ahead of everyone else in this type of things.
*Today I got my first letter from Canada!! How nice! It just made my day. My parents back in Japan called me last night, and I realized this was the first time I utter any Japanese words since my arrival.
lundi, octobre 03, 2005
Sightseeing in Georgetown
Still trying to catch up, but this entry is still a week behind…..
On the weekend I was able to do some sightseeing. Other VSO’s and I went to something called Guy Expo on Friday night. It was a big exhibition show casing different industries in Guyana. They also had some performances on a stage. One of them was a skit of the history of Guyana’s beer company called Banks Beer. I have not tasted it yet, as I am not a beer drinker, but it is very popular here. There were also some drumming, dance and singing. On Saturday, it was the orientation for my roommate, so one long-term VSO has brought both of us to the Botanical Garden and the Zoo. It was a quick visit, but I will write more about the zoo (they have some interesting animals…)
On the weekend I was able to do some sightseeing. Other VSO’s and I went to something called Guy Expo on Friday night. It was a big exhibition show casing different industries in Guyana. They also had some performances on a stage. One of them was a skit of the history of Guyana’s beer company called Banks Beer. I have not tasted it yet, as I am not a beer drinker, but it is very popular here. There were also some drumming, dance and singing. On Saturday, it was the orientation for my roommate, so one long-term VSO has brought both of us to the Botanical Garden and the Zoo. It was a quick visit, but I will write more about the zoo (they have some interesting animals…)
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