Talasgiving

In what has become a tradition, here is my monthly blog update. Since I last typed, stuff has indeed happened. I was lucky enough to get to help with a two day Forum of Young Leaders. It was seminar led entirely by local youth, all of who are members of ARZ. This forum was in preparation for World Aids Day. Which is December 1^st, just so you know. We brought in approximately 20 students from every Rayon, think like a county. This was an especially great event because we made sure all the village students had the chance to participate. A lot of times big projects take place in Talas City and because transportation can cost so much, village kids can’t go. Also, all the trainings were in local language. This meant that our participants did not have to be English speakers. Any student with an interest was able to attend. Guys, I can’t begin to explain how great this project was. It was not my project, though. A K-22, Tori, is the one to give credit to. This was her baby. The students were so mature. They had lessons on HIV/AIDs, transmission, stigma and discrimination. They also were given time to plan out what they wanted to do for WAD in their villages. It was just a great project.

The next big thing that happened was Thanksgiving. Oh my goodness. It was so good! Everyone came together at Tori’s compound, and we ate. And boy, did we eat. I was worried we would not have enough food, we had 21 people at Thanksgiving, but, man, was I wrong. We had SO MUCH food! It was great. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Ever. I was so worried that I would be really depressed, but I was very much surprised by how much fun I had.

And now, I will tell you all the things I am thankful for:

1. My family. They are still the best support system I could ever need,

2. My host family. I live with such a loving and nice family. I really am blessed.

3. My PCV family. They are crazy and drive me nuts sometimes, but I love them. They are so great. I am so happy to be in an oblast that genuinely likes to hang out.

4. Tori’s hospitality. She let’s me come over just about every weekend and feeds me. It’s great.

5. The Goonies. They are my best friends, favorite people, soul mates.

6. Good coffee. Thanks Mom and Dad.

7. Being here. It’s not always easy or fun, but I’m glad I’m here. I’m committed to make it work.

8. The Weger Café. Yum.

9. Hot sauce.

10. My two Aizada’s. They are just simply wonderful!

I hope your Thanksgiving was yummy! Don’t forget to wear Red for World Aids Day!