Updates

The weather has been cold lately. There was heavy snow fall a couple of days ago. Most has diminished by now. The weather is inconsistant like Oklahoma weather. People say that this is only the begginning of the cold weather. Well, of course, I know this, but how much colder than Oklahoma is my question. Electricity is on and off in most homes here. Although, I live in a building that the electrician lives in, so I have had no problems. I have a nice space heater, and my host sister has 2. So, it will be tolerable to live during the winter.

I thought Peace Corps drilling Bride Kidnapping stories into our heads was rather repetitive and over exagerated. I was wrong. I have finally encountered an experience from my sister's friend. She did not want to marry, and her family was forcing her to marry. So, it was very sad to watch her fall apart. I felt powerless, because there was absolutly nothing I could do. I sat in my room and tried to preoccupy myself with something to keep my mind on something besides her situation. There are many women who marry against their will here.


I am still adjusting to things here. It has only been 4 months. I cant wait until spring time. I want to go on treks to see the mountains and hot springs. I have a friend from Turkmenistan who works as a translator on treks through Alatoo which is north of Issykkul Lake and a little south of Kazakstan. So, I look forward to it.


I am still working on a nutrition book for my work. I am waiting to hear from Washington if we will recieve money for a Peer education program to teach about HIV/AIDS. Also, I am noticing my Russian is improving. I have been watching The Devil Wears Prada, Mean Girls, and Legally Blonde in Russian over and over. Narzina (my host sister) and our friend Mary(from Turkmenistan) love American clips. There are also a lot of popular songs from America that are played here. Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, and Linkin Park are common soundtracks to find in the magazines (stores).

Most people who talk to me want to go to America. One guy asked me if I would marry him and take him there. That was akward. I just kept saying I dont even know you! I try to tell people it is not exactly like the movies. Most American movies are about very rich people. My life is not that glamourous in America. Although, there are some nice comforts there.

Thanks for reading.

Carolyn