March 18, 2010 – Progress

I don’t know what to say today… there’s too much.  It’s almost all done.  To my poo crew, our fire was amazing, I wish it worked out like that in the yurt.  And to Geoff, thanks for teaching me how to swing a pickaxe, my form is now unbelievable. The school is actually starting to look like a building. I’m surprised on how everything is working out.  I have 100% stopped caring about my physical appearance. Right now my 4th day of unwashed hair is crusting over in curls and mud chunks.  My fingers are cracking with dirt and my face is stained brown.  This is my first day wearing my only second pair of pants and already they are gray with dirt.  Honestly, I wouldn’t want it any other way.  This program isn’t suppose to be pretty. I had the opportunity to take a shower yesterday and I passed on the invite.  I’m loving every moment of this.

Today is our cultural event. We will be teaching our friends how to play hockey. This will be amazing. They have taught us our differences aren’t that different, and that things can be done the same without the fancy equipment we use at home.

There are still many communications between us though, and sometimes it makes the atmosphere extremely awkward, but most funny (on the side that misunderstood). These people are incredibly nice.  They always smile and wave, and some even come by our room to say good night every night.

OK! I just learned how to spell my Mongolian name! It is spelt ìSuwdaaî. I’m excited about everything that is happening. Currently my friend is looking over my shoulder reading this.

Well Matheny wants me to go back to the building outhouse, so I will have go now.  Will update, though so much is happening I barely know what to say now.  Hope everyone is fine.  Miss you all, you too Hammer! We think of you whenever we hammer in a nail.