Upon returning from our trip - we were excited to come home to our phone! We had been waiting for installation, and in the meantime, using pay phones just to say “Hi, we’re doing well!”

 

Now that Kat and Terry have left, we realize it’s time to get settled. After teaching Friday and Saturday, and an all-day teacher’s meeting on Sunday, we’re happy to have Pre-Mother’s Day and Mother’s Day off! Yup, the national holiday has caused the school to shut down, so we’re doing “normal” things around the house today and tomorrow.

 

So, I thought this entry would be a good spot to write, a “what’s different” section.

First of all, laundry is impossible. Several people have nice, “normal” washer and dryers. BUT, we have this ancient machine we fill with water and soap, it sloshes around, and then the water drains. You then put the clothes in a “salad-shooter” contraption, so they are spun around at high speed, whipping the water out. Afterwards, we hang our clothes on a line to dry. Hmm, not loving it.

 

Secondly - the food. Now for those who come to visit on vacation - you’ll probably love it. They do an awesome job with chicken, fish, rice and veggies and fruits. BUT, that gets old, especially if you love red meat. “Carne” or beef, is just now what we think of. Burgers and steaks can be green, making you wonder if you ordered a veggie burger. We’ve all decided it’s because the cows eat different grasses here, but regardless, you just don’t find good steak down here.  Also - after 14 days, my stomach started to get mad. Now, almost 2 weeks after my upset stomach began - I can’t get rid of it. Ryan had it for a few days, and now it comes and goes for him. The consensus is that it’s due to just a change in food....but I can’t say I’m loving the food situation.

 

Something that’s different and BETTER, is coffee. I don’t know how we’ll ever go back, the coffee here is so great. Anyway, adjusting to changes is what this move is all about! More changes to come I’m sure.

 

Alright - we’re off to enjoy the sunshine.