Oh the Things I've Learned!

I know I start every blog the same, but WOW I wish I could really explain every thing that goes on in my life here in Zimbabwe. It just isn't possible, but these weekly updates will give you at least something...
      The last few entries have been intense and full of the serious and impacting experiences I've had and the ways I continue to grow. They are all amazing, but I decided to step away from the seriousness this time and share with you all the other things I am learning here. Each day is full of adaptation to the culture, I am full of questions and the ADMT staff does a great job putting up with them all! I spent this last week in Harare at ADMT and working with the local schools, projects and people. The title I could give this week would be, "How to be a Zimbo."
     I was focused on what tasks I needed to accomplished to be considered a Zimbabwean. I tried my Shona out, I wore my African attire, and I asked most people I came in contact with for tips or advice in becoming a Zimbo woman. I was totally laughed at and definitely a source of entertainment to the people, but I can honestly say I am getting there...
     A part of my work this week was visiting the homes of church members here at Eastside Christian Church. Denford, the missionary, is the pastor and church is held in the home that I stay in. I've gotten to know the church members pretty well over the last 2 weeks and it was awesome to visit some of their homes and to pray with them. With each home, I learned new ways to achieve my goal of becoming a true Zimbabwean. I was served Zimbabwean dishes, learned Zimbabwean traditions, and before I left made sure that I got my tip for the day... It was a blast! The people are incredibly welcoming, and seemed to really enjoy my efforts.

So... Here's what I walked away with at the end of week 2:

I now am able to prepare the staple food here in Zimbabwe called, Sadza. It is prepared daily in the homes, and a definite must for a woman to know how to cook.

I have mastered the art of towel wrapping a baby to my back. You don't go a few minutes without seeing a momma with her baby on her back. It is the way that they are able to get things done while carrying for their children. In my opinion it's seriously practical and my kids will be partaking in this one in the future...

I know how to properly wrap a scarf on my head, Zimbabwean style. I think I look like a joke, but I gotta do what I gotta do...

I have fetched water from a well and carried it back on my head. Yes, I still use my hands, but I'm getting there...

I learned how to plant cabbage and ground nuts. I've done my share of gardening, but it's different here and I'm getting it down...

I've become professional at bucket bathing, because of the lack of running water I shower daily with a bucket of hot water. I am taken care of by the staff here who heats the water for me, but I am now capable of getting my own water and showering like a champ (still figuring out the shaving thing, let's just say it's good that I wear long skirts that hide my legs everyday)

I have many things lined up for me to learn: Making peanut butter, collecting firewood, washing clothes, and many more, but I feel pretty accomplished so far.

As you can see, there's a lot of growth here, not only in the spiritual sense, but in the practical ways of being a true Zimbo. Pretty soon I'll have it all down, but until then I'll keep you posted :)