About 60something PCTs flew into Philadelphia for our one day of registration and training state-side. We are divided into two groups, 20something small business development PCTs and 40something youth development trainees (I'm a trainee again...). So glad that what was three days of reg./ice-breakers/skits/Q&A/intro. last year in Atlanta was condensed to one day this year. This group is interesting, much more diverse in ages and experiences than the Mauritanian group (and there's a few other hawaiians!). I look forward to our two years together. After 7 hours of introductory sessions and policies, my roommate and I got our last mexican/sangria meal (it was delicious). Exhausted from the weekend, 10-hour flight, and session, I slept so well.
Today, we take a bus to JFK and fly out to Casa. We stay in a hotel for 5 days in a small beach community, then move to our CBT (community-based training) sites for two months. Rumor on the street is the CBT sites, one for SBD and one for YD, are gorgeous (and chilly). Great setting to learn a new language and culture. When I think back to sweaty Rosso's three-room (girls’ room, boys’ room, and dining/session room) warehouse with the goat poop and trash outside, I can't stop thinking I'm on vacation right now. Especially since I'm typing this on my cushion-filled, well-padded queen-size bed in my hotel room with complimentary wireless. Did I mention we don't meet until 11am? I doubt the next two years will be this comfortable, but we’re off on a good start.
sounds like a "paid" vacation though I know you'll be working hard on your projects; how envious I am; make the most of this opportunity. who are the folks from Hawaii? and isn't it great to have so many SBD in this group -- sort of tells you the emphasis is on entrepreneurship -- so exciting to me that you're doing what I would have wanted to continue so I will enjoy your challenges vicariously.
ReplyDeletelooking forward to all your observations and views on Morocco and Moroccans -- and the food, too. Much love, Aunty A
Morocco...sounds so exotic. Good luck on your flight! Can't wait to hear about your first days there!
ReplyDeleteSounds like heaven. Still kinda wish I were there with you - let the vicarious living begin! And yes, there is still a chance I'll be popping through around Christmas. Heck, if I don't start hearing back from more places, I may still be unemployed at that point, in which case my stay in Magreb might be extended. :)
ReplyDeletesounds exciting! I'm just sad I missed you while you were here, but I'm sure you were busy with all that training.
ReplyDelete