Unlike the rest of my posts I will not lead this one off with an apology for being so tardy. After 8 months of this experience I have learned, and you I’m sure have too, that the excitement has worn off a touch. Things that once were strange seem normal. Quite a lot has happened since my last post so I suppose I’ll do my best to give a quick rundown.
In September I spent a couple days in Greece. I had a friend from school fly out to visit and we spent some time there. I have pictures and I’ll post them soon (I promise!) Since then I’ve been traveling all around Albania. I spent two weeks in the capital: one week to attend a Model UN conference, and another for a round table discussion with the AAM (Albania Association of Municipalities). Both events were lovely. The students participating in the Model UN conference were very impressive. I couldn’t imagine debating nuclear non-proliferation in Iran or Iraq at the age of 16, especially in a foreign language. The conference with AAM went well also. Volunteers working the municipalities around the country were invited to give suggestions about how the AAM could help provide trainings/funds/etc. Mostly we all benefited from it because it gave us a chance to hear what everyone has been doing in site.
Last week I spent a week in Pogradec, a city bordering Macedonia, for our mandatory language refresher. For the month preceding it I have been finding myself to be quite down. After a week of language training and socializing with friends I feel considerably better. Since the beginning of fall I’ve been transitioning in a way I couldn’t describe until now. Throughout the summer I mainly focused on passing the days. Now however I feel much more connected to the country and people than I ever have. I no longer desire as much contact with other volunteers, and feel like I need to integrate much deeper into my community. I’ve taken some time to really assess why I’m here and it has been a great chance to recharge my motivation.
Lately work has been quite slow. The bashkia still has no work for me, and they don’t appear to make an effort to utilize me whatsoever. I have taken it upon myself to seek out more work. The day before I left for Pogradec I introduced myself to an NGO named Auleda. They primarily work in local economic development. I think I’ll be helping them write projects, find grant money and work on implementing projects. I dropped off my CV with them yesterday and will meet tomorrow to see how we can collaborate.
I also met with the woman in charge of the tourism department at the University of Vlore. She told me that she would organize a group of her kids for me to help get projects conceived and completed. SIFE (students for International free enterprise) is also university group I plan to teach presentation skills to.
I have still been working closely with world vision and just recently 5 other volunteers and I have started the tourism committee. We have pretty lofty goals which will provide lots of work.
Nothing as of yet has really solidified but lots is on the horizon. I hope to see some of it come through and give me some more things to keep myself occupied.
I know this was a bit dry and brief but I hope it satisfies some curiosities about what I may be doing out here.
One thing I’ve noticed is that this experience has become much more intimate that I expected, one of the reasons I’ve posted less on here. If any of you have questions about what I’m doing or how I’m doing please send me an email. I would love to tell you individually what I’m experiencing. I’m a little apprehensive to post it on the internet for the world to see.
All the best!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Another overdue update!
How embarrassing to have let another month pass without an update….don’t think this stems from being overworked because that is far from the truth. The month of August in Albania is notorious for having no work. Even most of July is slow, mainly because…. “it is almost August”.
Things here are about as slow as they probably could be. I have been doing the grind through each day and somehow they do pass. I’ve spent the last two weeks away from my actual job and have felt the busiest since I’ve arrived in Albania. For the last two weeks I have led a training with 3 other PCVs. The training was a 4 day TOT (training of teachers). The teachers were college aged kids who would be camp counselors for a camp sponsored by world vision. We taught them life skills, how to teach life skills, and mainly how to be a camp counselor; a tough thing to do as I have never been one. The camp started off well, but I felt it started getting sloppy the last two days. To my surprise the kids were all full of praise at the end of the training. They had said that they had never had anything like it and were really happy they were all there. It was really gratifying to be a part of it and perhaps was the first really rewarding thing I’ve done since my arrival.
Next week I will partake in the camps with the kids I trained and the sponsored kids from around this region. I think we will mostly play games on the beach (which I’m good at) and do some swimming (also pretty good at that).
The weather has finally waned. After about a month and a half of almost constant 100 degree weather, clouds and cool air were welcomed as a blessing. Perhaps this is what makes summer so difficult.
Last weekend three PCV were in town from Macedonia. It was interesting to talk to those from another Balkan country. They all had 4 months left of service and it was pretty obvious they were ready to go home. Makes me wonder how I will be at that stage of my service. Next week will be my 5 month mark. Since I stepped of the plane from the states my perception of time has been screwed. Days, months, minutes, weeks, hours just all blend together and before I know it another month has passed. Some days the 2 year commitment is daunting, and others it seems like nothing. I’ve definitely learned that Peace Corps is a day to day struggle. Some days are amazingly rewarding while others drag seem to test every ounce of motivation and will I have.
I look forward to the fall weather and work. All in all I am doing well…not as busy as I’d like to be buy finding work where it is. I pass the time and think often of home. I look forward to the time I can spend with friends while still cherishing my time alone. I have found a delicate balance I feel and am doing well.
I wish you all the best and hope my late posts haven’t turned you off from checking my blog.
Cheers!
Things here are about as slow as they probably could be. I have been doing the grind through each day and somehow they do pass. I’ve spent the last two weeks away from my actual job and have felt the busiest since I’ve arrived in Albania. For the last two weeks I have led a training with 3 other PCVs. The training was a 4 day TOT (training of teachers). The teachers were college aged kids who would be camp counselors for a camp sponsored by world vision. We taught them life skills, how to teach life skills, and mainly how to be a camp counselor; a tough thing to do as I have never been one. The camp started off well, but I felt it started getting sloppy the last two days. To my surprise the kids were all full of praise at the end of the training. They had said that they had never had anything like it and were really happy they were all there. It was really gratifying to be a part of it and perhaps was the first really rewarding thing I’ve done since my arrival.
Next week I will partake in the camps with the kids I trained and the sponsored kids from around this region. I think we will mostly play games on the beach (which I’m good at) and do some swimming (also pretty good at that).
The weather has finally waned. After about a month and a half of almost constant 100 degree weather, clouds and cool air were welcomed as a blessing. Perhaps this is what makes summer so difficult.
Last weekend three PCV were in town from Macedonia. It was interesting to talk to those from another Balkan country. They all had 4 months left of service and it was pretty obvious they were ready to go home. Makes me wonder how I will be at that stage of my service. Next week will be my 5 month mark. Since I stepped of the plane from the states my perception of time has been screwed. Days, months, minutes, weeks, hours just all blend together and before I know it another month has passed. Some days the 2 year commitment is daunting, and others it seems like nothing. I’ve definitely learned that Peace Corps is a day to day struggle. Some days are amazingly rewarding while others drag seem to test every ounce of motivation and will I have.
I look forward to the fall weather and work. All in all I am doing well…not as busy as I’d like to be buy finding work where it is. I pass the time and think often of home. I look forward to the time I can spend with friends while still cherishing my time alone. I have found a delicate balance I feel and am doing well.
I wish you all the best and hope my late posts haven’t turned you off from checking my blog.
Cheers!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Since the end of my first week in post time could not have passed more quickly. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in these past 3 weeks (since my last post) is how to pass a day when you have nothing to do. Everyday I’ve learned to make an event about the smallest of tasks; today for example, posting on my blog.
In the most recent news I spent the 4th of July weekend in the capital. The embassy hosts a 4th of July party where they serve hot dogs, hamburgers, apple pie, etc. It was a delight to see all the other volunteers. It was the first time since swearing in.
The Saturday before last I was forced to find a new housing situation due to complications in the home. I was very stressed at first because I had only 4 days, it is in the middle of the tourist season and I had a limited budget. Peace Corps came down to help me though and by Wednesday I was moved into my own apartment. The apartment is not very large, but it has all the space I need. It is very new so all the appliances and furniture are nice. On top of all that it is on the 7th floor across the street from the beach. It has an amazing view of the sea and gives me yet another reason to be hated among other Peace Corps volunteers.
Work is going well. Very slow now, I don’t have much to do at my main post, but I spend the afternoons at the organization World Vision helping them with sponsorship paperwork. They have internet and air conditioning there and it’s a good place to power through the hot afternoons.
This last week I’ve been spending most of my free time outfitting my apartment. While it has a lot of furniture it lacks the necessities. This is the first time I’ve lived alone and I must say I’m a big fan. I’ve never before been excited to get home and clean. Amazing what having a place for yourself will do to some people.
Tomorrow a couple of my friends plan to come to Vlore for my birthday weekend. More will come Friday as well. It will be the first time I have visitors in my new apartment and I expect it will not be the last before the summer is over.
Aside from the chaos of the last three weeks things have been great. I’ve learned to slow myself down to match the pace of what is around me and it has helped in ways I can’t describe. Every time I post I say I can’t believe I’ve been here as long as I have, but it is the dead honest truth. I was so lucky to talk to my brother yesterday. He was the first person from the states I’ve spoken to in 4 months. That as the first time I’ve realized how long I’ve been here.
I plan to take pictures of my place once I feel I can call it home. I will post pictures of it shortly thereafter. I hope things back in the states are going well. I miss you all and much from America. You are all in my thoughts daily.
In the most recent news I spent the 4th of July weekend in the capital. The embassy hosts a 4th of July party where they serve hot dogs, hamburgers, apple pie, etc. It was a delight to see all the other volunteers. It was the first time since swearing in.
The Saturday before last I was forced to find a new housing situation due to complications in the home. I was very stressed at first because I had only 4 days, it is in the middle of the tourist season and I had a limited budget. Peace Corps came down to help me though and by Wednesday I was moved into my own apartment. The apartment is not very large, but it has all the space I need. It is very new so all the appliances and furniture are nice. On top of all that it is on the 7th floor across the street from the beach. It has an amazing view of the sea and gives me yet another reason to be hated among other Peace Corps volunteers.
Work is going well. Very slow now, I don’t have much to do at my main post, but I spend the afternoons at the organization World Vision helping them with sponsorship paperwork. They have internet and air conditioning there and it’s a good place to power through the hot afternoons.
This last week I’ve been spending most of my free time outfitting my apartment. While it has a lot of furniture it lacks the necessities. This is the first time I’ve lived alone and I must say I’m a big fan. I’ve never before been excited to get home and clean. Amazing what having a place for yourself will do to some people.
Tomorrow a couple of my friends plan to come to Vlore for my birthday weekend. More will come Friday as well. It will be the first time I have visitors in my new apartment and I expect it will not be the last before the summer is over.
Aside from the chaos of the last three weeks things have been great. I’ve learned to slow myself down to match the pace of what is around me and it has helped in ways I can’t describe. Every time I post I say I can’t believe I’ve been here as long as I have, but it is the dead honest truth. I was so lucky to talk to my brother yesterday. He was the first person from the states I’ve spoken to in 4 months. That as the first time I’ve realized how long I’ve been here.
I plan to take pictures of my place once I feel I can call it home. I will post pictures of it shortly thereafter. I hope things back in the states are going well. I miss you all and much from America. You are all in my thoughts daily.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Week 1
Another late update and again I offer my apologies. The last month I have been focused on finishing training and getting moved in and accustomed to my site. The last two weeks of training were constant sessions that really required nothing but my presence. These two weeks were both fun and numbing. I found myself often with my friends, but also wary about the coming transition which has been mentioned to be the most difficult of all a volunteers service.
Swearing in was anticlimactic and nothing really set in until a few days into site. I moved in to my permanent site a week ago and this has been the longest week I have experienced since I left the states. I was hoping that freshness of the city would help pass the time, I was wrong. The time has started to take a toll on me and I feel as though I’m going through my first “down” moment here.
The difference is not necessarily the lack of friends to visit with but all throughout training every day we were kept busy with something. I never noticed the passing of time until I came to site. Also, things have really started to sink in. The two years has come into perspective and being completely alone for a long period of time is not something I’m completely comfortable with yet.
However, in contrast I think I have one of the best site placements. I was lucky enough to be a walk away from some of the nicest beaches in the country and in a city large enough to keep me occupied when there is nothing else to do. I couldn’t be happier that I brought my guitar now that I have this free time on my hands.
Work now is going a little slow because of elections and other various issues that steal attention away from things that I can help contribute. Because of the absence of work in my main post I have sought it out elsewhere. I plan to help an NGO here in town with camps they sponsor for underprivileged children by being a camp counselor.
With more free time I hope to be able to update this blog more often, I know I have heard from you that check it often to see if I have updated and I hope that I will be able to do a better job at keeping up in the future.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Group Community Project
All 40 of the volunteers are split into groups of about 5 or 6 and live in different villages. Each group was required to design and implement a community project. It serves as more of a practice on how to build relationships, plan and work with Albanians, and assess resources available. Our group decided that sense we had classes in the high school everyday, but had little opportunity to speak with the students that we should include them into our project. Also, one of the volunteers' host father is the director of the hospital. So naturally we wanted to utilize that resource. We were "planning" on having the director of the hospital come to the school and speak for 10-15 minutes about being healthy/exercise/pollution etc. then follow it up with a field day which would include several American games. ( the egg toss, 3-legged race, and the bat spin relay.)
We thought we had communicated that we wanted 12 students from each grade to participate in the competition, but unfortunately instead of having around 50 students show up we had around 300. There were far too many people for the director to speak and it was very difficult to keep them all out of the way when we wanted to have the games. However, I'm not sure the kids have ever had an event like that planned for them because everyone wanted to be in it and I think everyone had a great time. It was definitely nice to finally interact with the kids who had been so curious about us for so long.
Friday, May 18, 2007
It's been a while
Thursday, May 17, 2007:
Eeep! I just looked at the date of my last post and feel the need to offer my apologies to anyone who has yet to lose interest in my very slowly developing blog. I would offer excuses but I’m afraid I have none. I’ve been quite busy and that has allowed me to fall into somewhat of a routine. Things have also been quite uneventful. I think the initial culture shock wore off and the pile of work on my desk has piled up…both aren’t very conducive to trying to write often. This weekend will mark two months and its past like a blink of the eye. My training is starting to wrap up and boy and I ready to be at my post. Last weekend I took a trip to my future site and I couldn’t be more pleased. Driving through the western flats of Albania is not very appealing if you’re seeking out good scenery, but about 5 minutes before you get to the coastal city of Vlore the foothills turn into mountains and the dry arid fields turn into lush green hills. The road bends around a few hills and it offers the first views of the Adriatic Sea and the city. The city itself is nothing out of the ordinary but its location is certainly something to write home about. (or post in your blog about) I was invited to be at the event planned by the municipality that kicks off the summer season. We spent most of the day at the beach swimming, playing cards and jumping off of the old communist dictator’s seaside house into the water. Unfortunately I did not take any pictures so I cannot yet post them, but I will be living there for two years so rest assured…they will be posted.
I suppose since it’s been nearly a month I haven’t yet posted about what my job in Vlore will be. I’ve been assigned to work in the Bashki (municipality) in the department of tourism.
This is what was given to me in a packet describing my service:
The PCV (Peace Corps Volunteer) will be expected to work with four priority areas as follows:
1. Tourism development
2. Cultural Preservation
3. Youth development
4. NGO coordination
Specific Job Tasks:
Working with Youth Center
Helping and coordinating youth efforts to participate in the process of improving the transparency of the Bashkia toward the citizens in Vlora.
Participation of the youth in improving the Cultural services
Helping and coordinating the mobilization of the students of Vlora University and high schools also
helping in organization and coordination of Youth activities in Vlora
Sharing the American views on youth development with Vlora young people.
Working on tourism
Helping the day to day operations of the tourism office
The coordination of the info gathering and sharing among NGOs and Tourism sector of bashkia and other related entities
Helping with development and the process of publishing a news letter
Helping the process and find the appropriate ways of gathering information from connected entities
Coordinate the process of getting students involved in tourism issues
Help in staff management
Help in internship involvement
Help in preparing and implementing the seasonal tourism activities
Working with Non for Profit organizations
Coordinating the activities and strengthening links between bashkia and NPOs
Helping in the process of needs assessment and priority setting of the NPO sector in Vlora
Working with Programming department
Helping the process of public participation and urban planning
I’m afraid this post has become dry quite quickly. Really the only exciting story that I can offer is my experience killing our dinner. About three nights ago my mother came into my room sharpening a knife. I was reading but she told me to come outside. I followed her and there was my host brother holding a chicken. She handed me the knife and told me I had to kill it. I think she meant they wanted me to. I was pretty reluctant at first since I had never done something like that before; eventually I ended up doing it. I had always heard the phrase “they’re running around like a bunch of chickens with their heads cut off” but I never had the opportunity to actually see a chicken run around with its head cut off…until then. I have to say I’m shocked. I definitely thought it was something that lasted no more than a few seconds.
Well a few hours and a good chicken soup later it made for a good story.
The pictures I have posted along with this entry are from the town I am spending my training in. I did not take these pictures so I need to give credit to one Robert Adamski. I also want to thank everyone who has left me a comment. I haven’t had the time to post but I have read what you have written and it truly makes my day every time I read one. Thank you.
I hope you all are doing well and I hope to hear more comments!
Eeep! I just looked at the date of my last post and feel the need to offer my apologies to anyone who has yet to lose interest in my very slowly developing blog. I would offer excuses but I’m afraid I have none. I’ve been quite busy and that has allowed me to fall into somewhat of a routine. Things have also been quite uneventful. I think the initial culture shock wore off and the pile of work on my desk has piled up…both aren’t very conducive to trying to write often. This weekend will mark two months and its past like a blink of the eye. My training is starting to wrap up and boy and I ready to be at my post. Last weekend I took a trip to my future site and I couldn’t be more pleased. Driving through the western flats of Albania is not very appealing if you’re seeking out good scenery, but about 5 minutes before you get to the coastal city of Vlore the foothills turn into mountains and the dry arid fields turn into lush green hills. The road bends around a few hills and it offers the first views of the Adriatic Sea and the city. The city itself is nothing out of the ordinary but its location is certainly something to write home about. (or post in your blog about) I was invited to be at the event planned by the municipality that kicks off the summer season. We spent most of the day at the beach swimming, playing cards and jumping off of the old communist dictator’s seaside house into the water. Unfortunately I did not take any pictures so I cannot yet post them, but I will be living there for two years so rest assured…they will be posted.
I suppose since it’s been nearly a month I haven’t yet posted about what my job in Vlore will be. I’ve been assigned to work in the Bashki (municipality) in the department of tourism.
This is what was given to me in a packet describing my service:
The PCV (Peace Corps Volunteer) will be expected to work with four priority areas as follows:
1. Tourism development
2. Cultural Preservation
3. Youth development
4. NGO coordination
Specific Job Tasks:
Working with Youth Center
Helping and coordinating youth efforts to participate in the process of improving the transparency of the Bashkia toward the citizens in Vlora.
Participation of the youth in improving the Cultural services
Helping and coordinating the mobilization of the students of Vlora University and high schools also
helping in organization and coordination of Youth activities in Vlora
Sharing the American views on youth development with Vlora young people.
Working on tourism
Helping the day to day operations of the tourism office
The coordination of the info gathering and sharing among NGOs and Tourism sector of bashkia and other related entities
Helping with development and the process of publishing a news letter
Helping the process and find the appropriate ways of gathering information from connected entities
Coordinate the process of getting students involved in tourism issues
Help in staff management
Help in internship involvement
Help in preparing and implementing the seasonal tourism activities
Working with Non for Profit organizations
Coordinating the activities and strengthening links between bashkia and NPOs
Helping in the process of needs assessment and priority setting of the NPO sector in Vlora
Working with Programming department
Helping the process of public participation and urban planning
I’m afraid this post has become dry quite quickly. Really the only exciting story that I can offer is my experience killing our dinner. About three nights ago my mother came into my room sharpening a knife. I was reading but she told me to come outside. I followed her and there was my host brother holding a chicken. She handed me the knife and told me I had to kill it. I think she meant they wanted me to. I was pretty reluctant at first since I had never done something like that before; eventually I ended up doing it. I had always heard the phrase “they’re running around like a bunch of chickens with their heads cut off” but I never had the opportunity to actually see a chicken run around with its head cut off…until then. I have to say I’m shocked. I definitely thought it was something that lasted no more than a few seconds.
Well a few hours and a good chicken soup later it made for a good story.
The pictures I have posted along with this entry are from the town I am spending my training in. I did not take these pictures so I need to give credit to one Robert Adamski. I also want to thank everyone who has left me a comment. I haven’t had the time to post but I have read what you have written and it truly makes my day every time I read one. Thank you.
I hope you all are doing well and I hope to hear more comments!
Saturday, April 21, 2007
To my devoted fans...
Thank you so much for the posts and encouragement. It is very much appreciated. I have much to post about but am extremely busy, so my apologies. I found out my placement for the next two years yesterday. I am going to be working in Vlore, a large Mediterranean city on the sea. I will be working in the Bashkia (municipality) helping with tourism and cultural preservation. I will be sure to write more about it this week. I will not have an opportunity to use the internet until the week after next.
I'm sure I will have lots to report on my next postings.
Again, thank you for all the comments, I love and miss you all.
Michael
I'm sure I will have lots to report on my next postings.
Again, thank you for all the comments, I love and miss you all.
Michael
Weekend memories
Sunday, April 08, 2007:
I find myself accepting the fact that this place is my home more and more every day. This is my third full weekend in country and the people and country is growing on me, more than I probably know. This weekend several of us decided to host our first volunteer social; inviting all the other volunteers to our city in hopes to sit around, have some wine, good food, and conversations that could be about anything and everything.
Yesterday we had 17 people come, which is about half of the whole group. There is a nice little restaurant on the end of the lake that is away from town that has a very nice patio. We sat outside for a few hours to just socialize. More often than not I found myself in between groups of conversations just listening, just watching, just taking in everything; it was a comfortable seclusion. It was great to see other volunteers, and have an event that was not mandatory for the Peace Corps.
Today Rob, one of my site mates, and I took the hour furgon trip into Elbasan for a tour of the city from a volunteer who is currently serving there. I’ve tried to think about how to describe the city, but I’m afraid my words won’t give it justice. The history of this place is phenomenal.
On the way home we happened to catch a furgon home with an English speaking Albanian. After answering many of his questions on the drive home we invited him to coffee to continue the conversation. It is very humbling to hear some of the stories these people have to share. This particular man is married, his wife lives in the same village as I do, but he is forced to work in Greece 9 months out of the year because of the lack of jobs in Albania. He rarely sees his family and works as many hours as he can. Sadly this story is one of many that exist in Albania. It is so difficult to respond to someone who is searching for opportunity, while I’m handed an opportunity of a lifetime on a silver platter. How can I not come off as condescending or arrogant?
While the lack of money and the existence of poverty punches you in the face when you step off the plane, what you learn once you’ve spoken with a few Albanians is that they are very wealthy in love. The pride they have in their country, the love they have for their family, and respect they have for the people and culture is worth more than all the money in the world to these people. And I cannot begin to describe how much I admire that.
I find myself accepting the fact that this place is my home more and more every day. This is my third full weekend in country and the people and country is growing on me, more than I probably know. This weekend several of us decided to host our first volunteer social; inviting all the other volunteers to our city in hopes to sit around, have some wine, good food, and conversations that could be about anything and everything.
Yesterday we had 17 people come, which is about half of the whole group. There is a nice little restaurant on the end of the lake that is away from town that has a very nice patio. We sat outside for a few hours to just socialize. More often than not I found myself in between groups of conversations just listening, just watching, just taking in everything; it was a comfortable seclusion. It was great to see other volunteers, and have an event that was not mandatory for the Peace Corps.
Today Rob, one of my site mates, and I took the hour furgon trip into Elbasan for a tour of the city from a volunteer who is currently serving there. I’ve tried to think about how to describe the city, but I’m afraid my words won’t give it justice. The history of this place is phenomenal.
On the way home we happened to catch a furgon home with an English speaking Albanian. After answering many of his questions on the drive home we invited him to coffee to continue the conversation. It is very humbling to hear some of the stories these people have to share. This particular man is married, his wife lives in the same village as I do, but he is forced to work in Greece 9 months out of the year because of the lack of jobs in Albania. He rarely sees his family and works as many hours as he can. Sadly this story is one of many that exist in Albania. It is so difficult to respond to someone who is searching for opportunity, while I’m handed an opportunity of a lifetime on a silver platter. How can I not come off as condescending or arrogant?
While the lack of money and the existence of poverty punches you in the face when you step off the plane, what you learn once you’ve spoken with a few Albanians is that they are very wealthy in love. The pride they have in their country, the love they have for their family, and respect they have for the people and culture is worth more than all the money in the world to these people. And I cannot begin to describe how much I admire that.
Weekend in Fier
Friday morning a site mate of mine and I were to set off to Fier by bus. Fier was a city I knew nothing about and in all honesty I was quite jealous of the volunteers who were going to much more glamorous cities in Albania for their site visit. We arrived to Fier with few problems; the largest being that the bus we were to take was 3 hours late. My first impressions of Fier are not worthy of being noted, as they do not represent what the city is appropriately. Andrew (my site mate) and I were relieved to meet the two volunteers we were going to be sharing the next two nights with. The city of Fier really took me by surprise. It is one of Albania’s largest cities and is quite nice. Just beyond the outskirts of the city is an oil refinery, so the water is polluted, aside from that it is a very beautiful city. Most of the streets near the city center are boulevards that are nicer than those I’ve seen in America. High rise apartment buildings were being erected every so often, and we spent most of the first night in one of the city parks just chatting.
I was infinitely surprised by the size of one of the volunteer’s apartment; it is as big as my host family’s house. We spent the first evening cooking dinner and watching movies on a projector borrowed from the library.
Saturday rolled around and we decided we would prepare for a camping excursion on the beaches of the Adriatic. We planned to take a furgon to the edge of the city then walk the rest of the way; a few miles. After walking for 5 minutes an Albanian man drove by, stopped, and offered us a ride to the beach. On the way he offered to take us for coffee, then treated us to more once we arrived at the beach. After about 3 hours of talking, most of that time was spent trying to convince this man we were American. The two other volunteers spoke such good Albanian he refused to believe we were from anywhere but Albania. We pitched our tents, gathered wood, built a fire, and then spent the night doing the things associated with camping.
During the evening stories were told, questions were asked, but most of all the barrier between trainee and volunteer was broken. We told jokes, had beers, roasted sausages, shared sentiment and discussed parallel ideology. Throughout the evening I thought about many things; about how happy I was I decided to sign up for the site visit, but mostly, how since I’ve entered Albania I’ve experienced such a surprising amount of gleeful times at moments that they are most unexpected. We spent much of the evening laughing, and once the cold midnight air prevailed over our modest fire we retreated to our tents.
I’d like to take the time to discuss the bunkers that are sprinkled all over Albania. The leader of the communist reign in Albania had an immense fear of invasion. These fears lead to the construction of concrete bunkers all over the country. It is common to have a dozen concrete pillboxes strategically placed within a picturesque landscape. I’ve heard there are some 300,000.
The beaches were lined with these bunkers. Although the most captivating and I’d say appropriate, aspect of these bunkers had nothing to do with their presence on the beach but location. Over the years the sea level has risen, so the marks of communism are not only being swallowed by time, but also by the sea. I took some solace in this small observation.
When day broke I awoke with the sun. I spent most of the morning perched on the bunkers, losing track of my thoughts and dazing into dreams that were on sync with the tide. My state of mind volleyed between vertigo and euphoria. My mood could best be described as melancholy. I spent the first hours of that day quite peacefully.
The weekend came to an end all too quickly and since I’ve returned nothing has occupied my mind more than the freedom I experienced in Fier. Tomorrow I learn where my site placement will be and my anxiety level is at an all time high. One thing I have taken away from this trip that I can apply immediately is to not judge where I may be going on any preconceived notion. I knew nothing about Fier and had the time of my life.
I was infinitely surprised by the size of one of the volunteer’s apartment; it is as big as my host family’s house. We spent the first evening cooking dinner and watching movies on a projector borrowed from the library.
Saturday rolled around and we decided we would prepare for a camping excursion on the beaches of the Adriatic. We planned to take a furgon to the edge of the city then walk the rest of the way; a few miles. After walking for 5 minutes an Albanian man drove by, stopped, and offered us a ride to the beach. On the way he offered to take us for coffee, then treated us to more once we arrived at the beach. After about 3 hours of talking, most of that time was spent trying to convince this man we were American. The two other volunteers spoke such good Albanian he refused to believe we were from anywhere but Albania. We pitched our tents, gathered wood, built a fire, and then spent the night doing the things associated with camping.
During the evening stories were told, questions were asked, but most of all the barrier between trainee and volunteer was broken. We told jokes, had beers, roasted sausages, shared sentiment and discussed parallel ideology. Throughout the evening I thought about many things; about how happy I was I decided to sign up for the site visit, but mostly, how since I’ve entered Albania I’ve experienced such a surprising amount of gleeful times at moments that they are most unexpected. We spent much of the evening laughing, and once the cold midnight air prevailed over our modest fire we retreated to our tents.
I’d like to take the time to discuss the bunkers that are sprinkled all over Albania. The leader of the communist reign in Albania had an immense fear of invasion. These fears lead to the construction of concrete bunkers all over the country. It is common to have a dozen concrete pillboxes strategically placed within a picturesque landscape. I’ve heard there are some 300,000.
The beaches were lined with these bunkers. Although the most captivating and I’d say appropriate, aspect of these bunkers had nothing to do with their presence on the beach but location. Over the years the sea level has risen, so the marks of communism are not only being swallowed by time, but also by the sea. I took some solace in this small observation.
When day broke I awoke with the sun. I spent most of the morning perched on the bunkers, losing track of my thoughts and dazing into dreams that were on sync with the tide. My state of mind volleyed between vertigo and euphoria. My mood could best be described as melancholy. I spent the first hours of that day quite peacefully.
The weekend came to an end all too quickly and since I’ve returned nothing has occupied my mind more than the freedom I experienced in Fier. Tomorrow I learn where my site placement will be and my anxiety level is at an all time high. One thing I have taken away from this trip that I can apply immediately is to not judge where I may be going on any preconceived notion. I knew nothing about Fier and had the time of my life.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Wednesday, April 11, 2007:
Today marks 3 full weeks in country. The last few days the weather has been beautiful and we have been as busy as ever. The Peace Corps has planned a weekend trip for current trainees to stay and visit with current volunteers. I am going to the city of Fier (pronounced Fear) Friday with one of my site mates from Belsh. Today we had language class for about 5 hours in the morning then had a meeting with our community development coordinators. After lunch Rob, Andrew and I took a walk around the town to do some more exploring.
We went to a part of town we had never been to and came across what appeared to be an abandoned school. It was a typical communist building with very brutal concrete construction. We were curious and started to poke around, and in trying to figure out how to get into the building we met 3 kids playing soccer. They told us they were playing soccer inside and invited us to join. For 30 minutes we played on the second floor of this school, the inside was in shambles and there was dirt and hay everywhere. We played around concrete columns and a few times the ball was kicked out of broken windows and needed to be fetched. I hadn’t the slightest idea I could’ve had so much fun when I set out on the walk and it was probably the best time I’ve had here in Albania.After a tough week of stress and a few downs a fun, social, active engaging activity was something that really boosted my spirits. Although things of late have gotten me down a little, I am really starting to feel at home here. I can’t say enough how great the people are. Every now and then an Albanian man will approach me and speak in English. I’ve had many free coffees shared with these men. And the best part of my day is when I walk down the street towards my house and pass a store where two little girls live. They must be between the age of 5 and 8, but every day when I walk past they always run from the back of the building to the porch and yell “HELLOOOOO” waving and smiling from ear to ear. It must be the only English word they know, but there has yet to be a day that I haven’t had the blessing of seeing those two girls greet me on my way home. Regardless of how upset or stressed I may be, that always lifts my spirits
We went to a part of town we had never been to and came across what appeared to be an abandoned school. It was a typical communist building with very brutal concrete construction. We were curious and started to poke around, and in trying to figure out how to get into the building we met 3 kids playing soccer. They told us they were playing soccer inside and invited us to join. For 30 minutes we played on the second floor of this school, the inside was in shambles and there was dirt and hay everywhere. We played around concrete columns and a few times the ball was kicked out of broken windows and needed to be fetched. I hadn’t the slightest idea I could’ve had so much fun when I set out on the walk and it was probably the best time I’ve had here in Albania.After a tough week of stress and a few downs a fun, social, active engaging activity was something that really boosted my spirits. Although things of late have gotten me down a little, I am really starting to feel at home here. I can’t say enough how great the people are. Every now and then an Albanian man will approach me and speak in English. I’ve had many free coffees shared with these men. And the best part of my day is when I walk down the street towards my house and pass a store where two little girls live. They must be between the age of 5 and 8, but every day when I walk past they always run from the back of the building to the porch and yell “HELLOOOOO” waving and smiling from ear to ear. It must be the only English word they know, but there has yet to be a day that I haven’t had the blessing of seeing those two girls greet me on my way home. Regardless of how upset or stressed I may be, that always lifts my spirits
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Quite unexpected…
Monday, March 30, 2007:
Quite unexpected…
When I was first informed of the Peace Corps and what and where they went I had a vision in my mind. That vision usually included a volunteer whom lived quite frugally among modest folk in a small village somewhere in Africa. The volunteer would spend his days learning the language of the locals, informing them of a culture foreign to them, while learning about one to him. They would find themselves living in a hut made of earth eating things he never knew existed and could only dream of a shower. The volunteer would then spend the next two years of their life in a completely different world and would eventually invoke a curiosity in the locals that would lead him to teaching/helping them in some grand way.
While that scenario may hold true for some PCV, that world I thought of does not exist in Albania. While there are many things here that just don’t make sense, I have spent the last two weeks in luxury compared to my PCV friend in Africa. I spent this afternoon in Elbasan for our second hub day. During breaks we were encouraged to go for coffee. I spent the evening after our sessions updating my blog and checking my mail at an internet café. I came home and spent the even watching a movie on my laptop then joined my host family for dinner, only to watch an American movie (in English, with Shqip subtitles) on television. Last night I finished an assignment in the comfort of my neighbor’s house while listening to jazz fusion from his laptop while discussing how we could communicate that he had fresh coffee beans from Guatemala.
The day before yesterday the 5 other volunteers, our Albanian teacher and I decided to try out a new restaurant during our break for lunch. I’ve never had better barbequed meat ever. We had 2 huge plates of lamb chops, three plates of fried potatoes and three plays of the freshest salad. We each paid roughly $5 American dollars.
It just doesn’t make sense to me…this is not the Peace Corps that I had imagined when I sent in that application; quite a world of differences in fact.
I’ve also learned that on Saturdays the main strip of my town basically shuts down to host a huge market that sells really any produce you can think of. No farmers here use preservatives, everything is fresh and organic and I cannot begin to describe how delicious all the food is.
While there are certainly things that I was not expecting that I will not have to live without for the next two years (internet, western toilets, hot showers), there are definitely things here that are apparent and need to be addressed.
As a post communist state trying to implement a functional democracy problems are not far from being present. The lack of infrastructure is what is noticed right away. The government does what it can with the funds it has, but there are so many complex problems that have no right or wrong answers time will only tell how they are solved. I’ve begun to realize how futile my efforts may be in creating change on a grand scale. This comes to all Peace Corps volunteers I presume, some earlier than others, but from what I’ve heard it is a common epiphany. Having that said, my purpose in Albania is to serve the Albanian people; they have requested our service and so I shall give all I can and do everything in my power to make a difference. Perhaps when it comes to the close of my service in 2+ years I’ll look back on this entry and laugh at my naivety.
I believe I’ve rambled enough for one night. Time to catch up on some sleep.
Quite unexpected…
When I was first informed of the Peace Corps and what and where they went I had a vision in my mind. That vision usually included a volunteer whom lived quite frugally among modest folk in a small village somewhere in Africa. The volunteer would spend his days learning the language of the locals, informing them of a culture foreign to them, while learning about one to him. They would find themselves living in a hut made of earth eating things he never knew existed and could only dream of a shower. The volunteer would then spend the next two years of their life in a completely different world and would eventually invoke a curiosity in the locals that would lead him to teaching/helping them in some grand way.
While that scenario may hold true for some PCV, that world I thought of does not exist in Albania. While there are many things here that just don’t make sense, I have spent the last two weeks in luxury compared to my PCV friend in Africa. I spent this afternoon in Elbasan for our second hub day. During breaks we were encouraged to go for coffee. I spent the evening after our sessions updating my blog and checking my mail at an internet café. I came home and spent the even watching a movie on my laptop then joined my host family for dinner, only to watch an American movie (in English, with Shqip subtitles) on television. Last night I finished an assignment in the comfort of my neighbor’s house while listening to jazz fusion from his laptop while discussing how we could communicate that he had fresh coffee beans from Guatemala.
The day before yesterday the 5 other volunteers, our Albanian teacher and I decided to try out a new restaurant during our break for lunch. I’ve never had better barbequed meat ever. We had 2 huge plates of lamb chops, three plates of fried potatoes and three plays of the freshest salad. We each paid roughly $5 American dollars.
It just doesn’t make sense to me…this is not the Peace Corps that I had imagined when I sent in that application; quite a world of differences in fact.
I’ve also learned that on Saturdays the main strip of my town basically shuts down to host a huge market that sells really any produce you can think of. No farmers here use preservatives, everything is fresh and organic and I cannot begin to describe how delicious all the food is.
While there are certainly things that I was not expecting that I will not have to live without for the next two years (internet, western toilets, hot showers), there are definitely things here that are apparent and need to be addressed.
As a post communist state trying to implement a functional democracy problems are not far from being present. The lack of infrastructure is what is noticed right away. The government does what it can with the funds it has, but there are so many complex problems that have no right or wrong answers time will only tell how they are solved. I’ve begun to realize how futile my efforts may be in creating change on a grand scale. This comes to all Peace Corps volunteers I presume, some earlier than others, but from what I’ve heard it is a common epiphany. Having that said, my purpose in Albania is to serve the Albanian people; they have requested our service and so I shall give all I can and do everything in my power to make a difference. Perhaps when it comes to the close of my service in 2+ years I’ll look back on this entry and laugh at my naivety.
I believe I’ve rambled enough for one night. Time to catch up on some sleep.
My First Full Day
Monday, March 26, 2007
My First Full Day
Before I arrived in Albania (Shqiperia) I told myself I would write in my journal every night. It appears that I’ve already started off on the wrong track. Today was my first full day in my satellite site. Elbasan is the second largest city in Albania and that is our “hub site”. The group of 40 volunteers is broken into about 8 “satellite sites”. My satellite site is Belsh, or Bellësh, and there are 5 other volunteers living here with me. I believe the city is the largest of all the satellite sites having a population around 13,000. The region has around 80 lakes and the town is situated around the largest. The views from the hills around the lake are stunning. In the distance the Balkan Mountains make their presence known. The city is quite beautiful; it lacks the funds to support a strong infrastructure, but people do all they can to make what they have beautiful. All buildings are concrete frames with a terra cotta infill. Most times the upper floors are left unfinished while the lower floors are occupied. I’ve heard that this reduces taxes, but It also allows an addition in the future.
I woke up this morning to roosters crowing in my front yard around 6:30 am. I stayed in bed until about a quarter after seven then made my way to the elementary schools where the other volunteers and I had a 6 hour Albanian (shqip) class. The people here are very curious, but also very friendly. It is not in their nature to smile at strangers, but as soon as you greet them and introduce yourself they are very cheerful. The group and I were walking around the town and on our way home I greeted a group of two men who seemed interested in us. He insisted that we allow him to buy us all coffee at one of the local café’s. After nearly an hour of having a conversation around the level that a 5 year old would have I finally communicated to him that I needed to go home.
Last night I met my whole host family for the first time. My host mother’s name is Bukuri Pepa, my father is Bujar Pepa, and my host brother is Abër Pepa. There are two other siblings that have moved to Italy. The oldest; a daughter, is married and has two daughters of her own. We spent the night trying to communicate in what little Albanian I have already learned. Dinner was delicious. We had a very good, and simple, salad that had just lettuce, tomato, and green onions. I believe all the veggies came from Bukuri’s garden. Along with the salad was bread sliced cucumbers some lamb and French fries…Albanians love French fries and I’ve been told have them with every meal.
After showing pictures of each other’s family I retreated to my room for a little me time and to try to catch up on some sleep. Tomorrow is our first trip to the hub site (Elbasan). It is an hour drive on a furgon (mini bus). If I’m lucky I’ll be able to post these last two entries.
This whole country reminds me a lot of non tourist areas of Hawai’i. It is very beautiful, but quite poor. It will be exciting to see what all can be accomplished in the next 27 months of my stay.
It is amazing how difficult it is to try to communicate with people who have no idea what you are trying to say. I have a new found respect for foreigners travelling In America. Hopefully the 6-8 hours of daily language training will help.
I just wanted to catch you all up, but I really need to hit the books. I hope you’re enjoying these posts as much as I am being here.
Mirupafshim.
(Goodbye)
My First Full Day
Before I arrived in Albania (Shqiperia) I told myself I would write in my journal every night. It appears that I’ve already started off on the wrong track. Today was my first full day in my satellite site. Elbasan is the second largest city in Albania and that is our “hub site”. The group of 40 volunteers is broken into about 8 “satellite sites”. My satellite site is Belsh, or Bellësh, and there are 5 other volunteers living here with me. I believe the city is the largest of all the satellite sites having a population around 13,000. The region has around 80 lakes and the town is situated around the largest. The views from the hills around the lake are stunning. In the distance the Balkan Mountains make their presence known. The city is quite beautiful; it lacks the funds to support a strong infrastructure, but people do all they can to make what they have beautiful. All buildings are concrete frames with a terra cotta infill. Most times the upper floors are left unfinished while the lower floors are occupied. I’ve heard that this reduces taxes, but It also allows an addition in the future.
I woke up this morning to roosters crowing in my front yard around 6:30 am. I stayed in bed until about a quarter after seven then made my way to the elementary schools where the other volunteers and I had a 6 hour Albanian (shqip) class. The people here are very curious, but also very friendly. It is not in their nature to smile at strangers, but as soon as you greet them and introduce yourself they are very cheerful. The group and I were walking around the town and on our way home I greeted a group of two men who seemed interested in us. He insisted that we allow him to buy us all coffee at one of the local café’s. After nearly an hour of having a conversation around the level that a 5 year old would have I finally communicated to him that I needed to go home.
Last night I met my whole host family for the first time. My host mother’s name is Bukuri Pepa, my father is Bujar Pepa, and my host brother is Abër Pepa. There are two other siblings that have moved to Italy. The oldest; a daughter, is married and has two daughters of her own. We spent the night trying to communicate in what little Albanian I have already learned. Dinner was delicious. We had a very good, and simple, salad that had just lettuce, tomato, and green onions. I believe all the veggies came from Bukuri’s garden. Along with the salad was bread sliced cucumbers some lamb and French fries…Albanians love French fries and I’ve been told have them with every meal.
After showing pictures of each other’s family I retreated to my room for a little me time and to try to catch up on some sleep. Tomorrow is our first trip to the hub site (Elbasan). It is an hour drive on a furgon (mini bus). If I’m lucky I’ll be able to post these last two entries.
This whole country reminds me a lot of non tourist areas of Hawai’i. It is very beautiful, but quite poor. It will be exciting to see what all can be accomplished in the next 27 months of my stay.
It is amazing how difficult it is to try to communicate with people who have no idea what you are trying to say. I have a new found respect for foreigners travelling In America. Hopefully the 6-8 hours of daily language training will help.
I just wanted to catch you all up, but I really need to hit the books. I hope you’re enjoying these posts as much as I am being here.
Mirupafshim.
(Goodbye)
A day at a time…
Tuesday, March 20th, 2007
A day at a time…
My second day as an official Peace Corps volunteer draws near an end and I am at a loss of words to describe my current state of mind. I am both physically and mentally exhausted from the lack of sleep and the overwhelming bombardment of emotion. The last two day’s have been my staging event in Washington D.C. During this time the Peace Corps does its best to introduce us to their policies, but most importantly, each other. I can already see the beginning of friendships in other, and feel connections with others myself. While we all have very different stories up to this point it has become quite clear that many of us will insert the same pages into our book of life. This bond is ultimately the foundation upon which we build our relationships. The thought that these people I’ve known for a couple days will become my closest friends is still surreal. Perhaps the connection stems from our deep resounding desire to do something good, to learn something new, and to fulfill an intense curiosity of the world and the people living on it and these qualities all brought us to the Peace Corps.
I’ve learned a lot about my colleagues over these last few days and it’s been very invigorating to be exposed to so much creativity, and so many bright minds, and people who share the same passion about this as I do.
Yesterday we were so lucky to have the Ambassador to Albania grace us with his presence. He spoke for several minutes and throughout expressed so much excitement, so much enthusiasm, and so much energy. This one man possessed so much optimism; at that time it seemed difficult to believe that Albania needs us at all. Above all these qualities the love in his voice towards his country and towards the volunteers committing to serve his country for the next two years spoke the loudest to me. This man seemed to hold us in such high esteem it was difficult to not be flattered.
Before I came to D.C. and even throughout most of staging leaving never really became real. Living in a country that speaks another language never sank in until just a few hours ago. It’s interesting to digest. I have nothing in my life that I can relate what I will experience over the next two years to, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. It makes me feel so alive.
It is pushing two o’clock in the morning and we have a long day of traveling tomorrow so I suppose I should try to get some sleep. Hopefully getting all this out will help shut off my mind and allow me to actually fall asleep tonight.
Until we meet again.
A day at a time…
My second day as an official Peace Corps volunteer draws near an end and I am at a loss of words to describe my current state of mind. I am both physically and mentally exhausted from the lack of sleep and the overwhelming bombardment of emotion. The last two day’s have been my staging event in Washington D.C. During this time the Peace Corps does its best to introduce us to their policies, but most importantly, each other. I can already see the beginning of friendships in other, and feel connections with others myself. While we all have very different stories up to this point it has become quite clear that many of us will insert the same pages into our book of life. This bond is ultimately the foundation upon which we build our relationships. The thought that these people I’ve known for a couple days will become my closest friends is still surreal. Perhaps the connection stems from our deep resounding desire to do something good, to learn something new, and to fulfill an intense curiosity of the world and the people living on it and these qualities all brought us to the Peace Corps.
I’ve learned a lot about my colleagues over these last few days and it’s been very invigorating to be exposed to so much creativity, and so many bright minds, and people who share the same passion about this as I do.
Yesterday we were so lucky to have the Ambassador to Albania grace us with his presence. He spoke for several minutes and throughout expressed so much excitement, so much enthusiasm, and so much energy. This one man possessed so much optimism; at that time it seemed difficult to believe that Albania needs us at all. Above all these qualities the love in his voice towards his country and towards the volunteers committing to serve his country for the next two years spoke the loudest to me. This man seemed to hold us in such high esteem it was difficult to not be flattered.
Before I came to D.C. and even throughout most of staging leaving never really became real. Living in a country that speaks another language never sank in until just a few hours ago. It’s interesting to digest. I have nothing in my life that I can relate what I will experience over the next two years to, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. It makes me feel so alive.
It is pushing two o’clock in the morning and we have a long day of traveling tomorrow so I suppose I should try to get some sleep. Hopefully getting all this out will help shut off my mind and allow me to actually fall asleep tonight.
Until we meet again.
Friday, March 30, 2007
My apologies...
I'm terribly sorry to any of you expecting more frequent updates. This first week in our satellite sites have been quite busy. I was planning on posting two entries I wrote, but I forgot to save the file to my external hard drive before I left for Elbasan. I will be back on Tuesday of next week and will be sure to bring them then. Although I do have a few pictures of my site that I will be sure to add so that those of you following along can see where I am living.
Again I apologize, but I will post Tuesday.
Again I apologize, but I will post Tuesday.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Mailing Address
From March 19th until mid June my new mailing address will be...
Michael Heise
Korpusi i Paqes
PO Box 8180
Tirana, Albania
While email certainly has its benefits I believe a fair amount of intimacy has been lost in the process. I invite any who read this blog to be my pen pal and as a joint effort we can rejuvenate the popularity of letter writing.
Michael Heise
Korpusi i Paqes
PO Box 8180
Tirana, Albania
While email certainly has its benefits I believe a fair amount of intimacy has been lost in the process. I invite any who read this blog to be my pen pal and as a joint effort we can rejuvenate the popularity of letter writing.
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