a new start

my new family the sKosanas, going out to burn trash

Each day has it’s unique ability to open to something I never thought it would be. What I mean is- I am never able to predict where my day may take me. There is some sort of engine which encourages you each morning to make a mental plan for the day that is folding in front of you, what I am trying my best to do instead, is let this guide have its place in my back pocket but not so much be held to it. I often begin the day thinking it will be such a bore, forgetting that my work here in SA is so unpredictable and wonderful in that. Whether making a friend (a new part of my experience as I am able to build relationships with community members now rather than only be their neighbor to greet), or receiving thanks from a stranger far across the way (what a wonder that my white skin can still be seen so far away), or gifted a jar of home-made apricot jam that has a smile of an old Gogo attached to it (and a gathering where communication is small but appreciated by both participants). I think this is why life here is so favorable by an outsider like me while many village residents call it boring. I am in a new, each moment I walk outside my room and gated home.
my bedroom tin roof
Of course, I am starting to get worn down from the constant hellos. Wishing to be invisible for just a few moments, if I let it get to me I really crave the time to myself-to read or paint. This is difficult to come by though with small children wanting my attention or Gogo sitting at my side every moment (a method of comforting according to culture), which leads to additional challenges.
I am currently staying with a women and her grandchild (I refer to this women as Gogo-grandmother in IsNdebele). She has 4 adult children that are doing great things in their lives (all are employed and working and living away in neighboring large cities).
On the evening of October 31, I moved into my new home. Situated apart from the main house; I stay in one of the 4 rooms that are removed and have in a previous life been home to her children. It is traditional that once the children are at a “suitable age”, determined by the parents, they are moved to their own room, no longer asked to share with their siblings. Most adults* live with their parents until they are married, and the parents will award “the adult” with their own room outside of the house, *if finances allow. My Gogo lost her husband 10 years ago as well as 2 daughters. The causes of these deaths are unknown*. *Seldom deaths have a known cause attached to them, many people fear the death sentence of their identified illness, the stigma surrounding the subject or lack of confidentiality in the workplace, hospitals, etc.. According to the grandchildren, all had been ill before passing.
Gogo lives comfortable in this home for plenty and yard extending greener and larger than I have ever seen in SA. She also has several fruit trees (mulberry, apricot, peach, mango) for which I am already reaping the benefits of. The grandchild, Sinaye (SSS-Nigh-Ae) I am staying with has just turned 4 yrs.
Sinaye, first day of preschool
Many of you all-know (despite my chosen profession),that I am not one to enjoy small children, however I am trying my best to be patient with this little one. She has the same tendencies as any small child to want to play and uses like many South Africans an indirect approach to questioning, saying to me everyday in IsiNdebele, “Will anyone play with your toys today?” She will begin attending school next year (January) so I am looking forward to helping her with her studies. Gogo and Snia (the littlun-“Lord of the Flies”lovers) both speak a mix of Afrikans and isiZulu. Our communication is fine though, sometimes I return from school with all sorts of complains I just let out and she listens, which is sometimes all one needs. We laugh a great deal when we do try to communicate- something like a task she wants me to complete for her, a great deal of acting takes place. Ngithanda(I like)! Back when we were searching for a home for me, she was adamant in expressing her interest for education and her thanks for the work I was doing, this is well-observed in her lovely family. Their visits include plenty of English conversation, which I thoroughly enjoy.

my bed
So no mud-hut haley? This is true. Much time here (for now)is spent considering that this may not be the PC experience I had expected. With that being said, I don’t doubt that my life is extremely different then yours and that the traveling I will be able to take part in is far greater than I could ever afford or make time for in the states. So, in many ways it is what I had wished for. I wished to help people and learn a great deal about myself in all of the travels. I do have plenty of flies, barn yard animals and vegetables as hoped. The new people I am meeting have a spirit much different than anything I have met in America-that includes my gobs of international friends from University, must have something to do with context. The situations I am placed in are exactly what I love and joyfully take part in. Singing with the women cooks or listening to my Principal give me purpose to sleep-deprivation and remedies including “sprinkling the blood of jesus” on all that is my room.
Gogo and I can speak to one another a bit, she has definitely taken to me as I have accepted assisting her in the cleaning of her large abode for her daughters’ “traditional wedding”.

Ndebele traditional blanket the bride will wear holding candies and presents for people to tear off
Washing windows, removing, cleaning, and replacing lace-drapes, tending to the plenty of blankets for the visiting family, I found the work exhausting but exactly what I needed in those early awkward moments of staying with someone new. I think now we are better off, although I think her and her mother are subtly relinquishing their feeling of shame for the poor white girl who has moved in their home-with family so far away. I am able to begin preparing food for myself here, which is possibly the single most activity I was looking forward to once I had my own stay. I am partial to eating tomatoes, green pepper, onion salads. I hope to continue with a veggie routine in hopes of losing the weight I gained from training service. However, when family visits like they have for the wedding, it is difficult to resist the heaping plate of rice, salads and chicken. I try to explain that these dishes aren’t taken so well by my bod, but in return receive shocked reaction to my raw vegetable eats and advising that they drink the boiled remains of the green-beans, gogo thought this all funny, and suggested that soon I would tell them her grass was healthy to eat(would she even believe people do eat grass smoothies?).
I use the main house kitchen and keep a few items in my gogo’s fridge. In my room I have an electric kettle to heat my bath water and take tea. My room holds a desk taken from my intermediate school, and a bed and dresser provided by the department of education.
What is predictable now-a-days: that my grade R-3 goodbye recognition ceremony will include the following: the thong song and sexual-healing song, a skit including guns, killing, making fun of corporal punishment. When there is a gathering like such it is normal for guests to bring their own plates and cups.
Cold drink(pop/soda) has a sort of euphoric reaction in its taster, demonstrating that alcohol may not always be the means of relaxing after a meal. This may be because it gathers its guests together to enjoy a 2 liter bottle that will surely leave you fuller than your closing meal.




entertainment at an AIDS testing drive
A fulfilling afternoon spent handing out condoms (some people asking for more than 3 packs of 2 condoms-to ensure users are building a sexual relationship not just a one-time fling) and informing and inviting community members to an AIDS testing can end unpleasantly as the Sisters(nurses) administering the tests- leave the site unannounced because participation is lower than expected.
Kids clapping their hands twice and then holding open palms in apprciation for what it is you are to gift them.
Examining the community:
School is ending; the schools will start again in January. During my time arriving in Gemsbokspruit I have become familiar with the people of this community. I have begun to identify the needs of the area and begun practicing a few methods of intervening. PC set up a routine of weekly projects that introduced us to different sectors of our new homes, which better attempted to ease our investigations and questioning. Within a weeks work I usually found out a few details that will be found valuable in later planning.
desk and hung cards and pics
Some of these shinning star moments are the following:
The intermediate school has a great amount of text the department of education has provided and alongside educators I have been able to organize this resource for better educator accessibility. Gathering with a small girls group, venturing to our shopping town together and taking “silent” hikes has been enjoyable by the grade 6 learners and myself. Practicing English learning methods with a counterpart had its highlights that demonstrated what I was suggesting could be implemented in SA educator classrooms. Working with the learners during these weeks was especially fulfilling as I was able to be back in the classroom working with learners, despite their young age, a smile from a young one always makes the day a joy. Speaking in isNdebele was rewarded with learners eager to follow along with my directions. Reading and writing are elements in the classroom that these learners yearn for. Can you believe that? Go ahead and experiment, but I promise that learners repeating a list of sight words rather than reading and writing is no more fun than counting the flies on your bed (something I inevitable take part in daily). My work included discussing with the educator why these elements may be helpful in building learner ability to read and write. I took my fair share of ridicule from the counterpart but stood strong when questioned whether I had ever taught young children, (which theoretically I had not done, but hey I have a good idea what I am talking about).

Some from my journal:
On this cold dreary morning, I prefer to only wash my face, no matter that I can heat the what to my liking, I prefer not to see my round stomach nor can I waste a minute more as I have woken late-too much comfort in ones bed makes for a difficult time outside in the rain and cold. Trudging to school I am hoping one of my educators will pass my way by car-this is just the right time I would prefer to have a lift, the endless down pours this past week make for deep puddles in the red-orange grounds and up ahead I am imagining it will be a great number of wet steps. Vivian (N.V. as some refer to her sounding like envy) has stopped and I jump in. Her defrost is not working and she is frantically cleaning the windows while dodging deep wholes in the rode and small children on foot. I was dreading this morning as my principal’s sister has passed and it had been a surprise and quite the dreary past week of funeral preparation. Days following the services are surely to be dismal-leaving an outsider such as myself uncomfortable in the unfamiliarity, I take this as a time to step back into the observer role. It is assumed that I will take the class of one of the educators who is also a sister of the principal. I agree but warn, it will be my last time(many educators like to take advantage of volunteer’s in their classroom and choose to take tea rather than teach) and only a half day as I must make my rounds to my other schools.
This morning with the littleones starts off slower than the past days as the chilled environment slows the comfort process a class with me seems to exude(due to positive expectations, classroom discipline, and classroom management). Increased learner progress is observed these last few weeks-learners are using their English frequently, despite their surrounding disarray. Broken windows are the works of a burglar that educators identify as men of this community tarnishing their own family’s education. The burglars are after the metal in the hinges and window lock. Windows are splashed with red plaint to prevent thieves from taking the glass and selling it.
The A-B-C are lead by my morning voice and directed by two learners with ruler in hand pointing to the letters. This is a new approach which I hope can meld the “learner-center model” and deficient educator abilities-often complain of her hurtful elements. A grade 3 English class requires enthusiasm to motivate learners that have struggles at home (fundamental needs unfulfilled-food, love, shelter). I notice that the learners are taking to the new routine and are excited to sound out the letters and motion their outline with their bodies. They look forward to being called to the ground for reading time and then return to their seats to read themselves. As the class progresses, I experience highs and lows in gauging knowledge gained (assessing these concepts without a home-language educator is difficult) and the knowledge I wish I had concerning English-second language learners.

My pictures and phone number

My pictures can be seen at the following:
(these are from America goodbye and training July 2008-Sept.2008)
please bookmark for continued visits!!
www.flickr.com/photos/32193167N07/

My phone number in case you are interested in contacting me (this is with the country code; it is best to purchase a phonecard that is good for SA) Would love to hear from you!: 01127715441714

My newest address:

Haley McDonough
P.O. Box 765
Kwa-Mhlanga 1022
South Africa

*would love to hear from you

October Rains

Sorry to have not kept my blog writing frequent. I own a cellular I can use to check my email but am reluctant to write anything lengthily as my thumbs can’t take to the exercise just yet. Feel free to write me a personal email, I so enjoy reading a note from friends and family rather than junk mail updates. Below are a few journal experts with the most recent in closing. I am looking forward to a friend venturing this side of the world- who has agreed to bring me my laptop and from then writing will surely enhance!




preservice dancing at Umpho's families home with Umbali, the best little dancer I know
One good day-I am so happy-having longed to be in this situation for a long time. How nice it really is to not have control over little pieces of everything I am use to. I am learning, how capable I am no matter the situation. Skills I never knew I held. I have the time to get to know myself. I know me, I know my strengths, interests and am able to identify the areas I can help; where knowing me fits into how my time will be well spent.
late August, first on-site visit: Having met with the community chief, clinic and school-I had spoken my isiNdebele, and hopefully introductions were to everyone’s liking and won those over who may have been already doubting my commitment (the previous volunteer at my site in 2006 was sent home for not following PC policies).

Upon visiting with primary school educators: With my Principal having described me as approachable, energized and confident -I closed my introductions with a traditional goodbye however realized that some of the educators were still questioning my sir name in whispers-I quickly joined those who had exited theoffice to assure them it indeed was McDonough, like McDonald not Haley and from then forth could be addressed as Lungile(my given traditional IsiNdebele name).

First school reaction and assessment: some needs are similar to that of American schools, I am drawling on my experiences at Federal Hocking MS (Athens, OH) especially because it required educators to work with underfunding and underserved learners-one has to consider Maslow’s hierarchy when working with the learners because many have very little interest in school learning given they have little to eat and no one to care for them at home. In what ways (J.Safran phrasing!) can we as educators interact with learners while being compassionate to their prior knowledge and unique backgrounds?
Working with 14 educators at my intermediate school grades 4-6, currently I am meeting with educators on an individual basis once I complete a day classroom observation. When I gather with educators I am careful to consider their comfort in chatting with me. I review my purpose as agreed upon by SA Board of Education. But also suggest that they can take my comments as they like since they have 10+ years than I do in the field and are native to SA, and that in the future I have the opportunity to actually be able to try out and demonstrate some American teaching techniques I am familiar in their SA classrooms. But until then, I take note that I need to step cautiously, wisely and remember that some Educators will be let down with what I offer. I meet with Educators often through out the days to keep communication open to help build some of their confidence and be here to ease a bit of the questions and confusion that comes with relaying new information.
Phone calls home to a few friends and family: And I so adore at least hearing their voicemails as they provided just enough remembrance and those I speak with me, share that there is very little that is changing at home (besides gas prices…) while my everyday is a nauseous-ish cycle; sorry that is PROCESS, of learning.
Ndebele people festival
I am realizing that I have had an excellent set-up; A.) democratic CARE classroom learning; thank you Rosalie Romano and Francis Godwyll and fellow CARE cohort; B.) Jill Kasler practices with learners specifically in areas of reading and writing intervention at Alex.
I do miss my Mgunnie homestay (earlier introduced as first homestay) and they have brought me to tears with their phone-call check-ins; this always centers me and lets me realize that soon- Again I will feel comfort here in my final stay of Gemsbok Spruit. But oh how grand a place this is and how singular I am. I can feel daily the effect it is having on me.
The day is cloudy and I have found these to be my favorite. Never has weather played such a fundamental part in determining my mood for the day. I am not sure if it is the solitude of this moment (as the majority of my village is gathered down the way at a funeral-a young gent at the early age of 28 has passed-when asked what the cause was no one offers a response-I am not sure this is because they really are uninformed or if the cause is rather taboo and therefore community members are reluctant to share the highly unfortunate news-as inquisitive as I am and strive and want to be especially since it is sort of my job to understand the community- I am nosey in your face to understand these very situations. And so I find myself sharing there are only a few causes of death I am familiar with and therefore it shouldn’t be that difficult to find out his…right?!(or is this just the American I want to know now attitude)–because if it effects me I want to prepare myself.
So I begin to discuss the morbid topic of death, and as I grace over the words HIV/AIDS I am realizing that although I have not often spoken about these few letters, they meet my friends mouths more often. Their minds possibly gracing the topic and their lips emphasized by the taste of salty tears. I can note that those South Africans I speak with feel at ease with the subject and welcome the discussion given my comfort to lead. I know my own family in the states too far conservative, has a dynamic reaction to the subject of HIV/AIDS. Even when presenting my PC objective and community and schools resource specialist goals-faces held back a cringe while surely their stomachs were turning over as they thought what this may actually entail-myself in contact with those that are diseased. Giving of ones self does take on such an interesting path doesn’t it; not only that in the new world experience but with that which we come from.
Back to the clouds.. It is windy a tid bit, I find the right corner of the outside of the house to sit upon a hand-weaved bamboo mat, for an hour, I can still enjoy the outdoors as it is 5pm and the sun will not be holding me from my writing or reading. The winds are cool and filled with sandy specs from our passage ways and yards. The stillness is unusual but enjoyable, some sound of children playing and a few passerbys, groups of young gentlemen holding empty or full forty liter bottles for alcohol or cold drink on their way to the taverns, hang on one another as friends just do-laughing and jeering occasionally greeting and calling out to me either by my SA name Lungile (pronounced Loongelay) or that of the previous PC volunteer Simphwe. This is acknowledgment in its self and far greater than what I had received only a week ago. The sweet sounds of progress.
Our Ndebele family, all living in KwaNdebele land
Times of sorrow: A few days this week, I haven’t been quite able to hold back the tears. In these public occurrences, I may be sitting with new SA community members and have been asked about my USA family; rather than only the happenings of my fictional fiancé…I for only an instance realize my family’s fine faces are far away and my eyes swell with tears. I grab for my handkerchief. Apologize to my new friends (strangers only minutes before) gather myself with the “this too shall pass” statement I am using as a means to get through the tough times and quickly skip to another subject. This same pattern is quick to repeat itself at even the most random of moments like when I am looking up at the clouds-I realize this is one of the elements true to any place you may be, and besides our breath (thank you Buddhist learning’s) can center me. I must add the skies awesomeness is held in SA, although it is rare that a Saturday or any day of mine was ever spent looking up in the states. Why not I wonder?
October rain; Life is getting a bit easier. Faces are comfortable with seeing me and I am feeling confident in where I am going in my village and what I am doing. This is good.
Today, I walked out of my usual morning paths to pick up 10 bars of soap and met an Indian shop owner who was humored by my comment that he takes a great deal of morning demand from small children in need of candy; all of which are unwilling to use their please and thank you courtesy that is a must at school(these side comments I often speak are usually not caught by my company, the beauties of an ESL country) .
Then by foot I journeyed to Bawokuhle Primary School and observed my Principal educate about Apartheid in 1.5 hours of lecture to grade 3 learners. Learning was in IsiNdebel as it is for all classes from grade 3 and under, but I am confident in suggesting that the learners have taken very little from what she has shared, the passage of knowledge evidently does not work through merely talking at is recipients. Welcome to my life.

It is the second day of World Handwashing Week!(I have asked a few village stores to donate bars of soap for the learners to use at school)-Since this is a new experience for learners they are overwhelmed with it all and I have very little control of what may seem like a simple task, I have asked 2 educators to assist me with this project but a mess is what we have with lines of 500 learners eager to clean- a hose of water is spraying everywhere-I become frustrated that the hose could not be turned off, ran around silly, drenching myself-spilling all the IsiNdebele language I knew and then gave up(it appears the pliers to turn off the water are with the janitor who is asleep somewhere-no one else seemed to care). And so all in all this was a completely wondrous occasion for many reasons-I am unsure how many understood the concept-why washing is important or how it can be a part of their everyday lives. But with my bit of introduction including an assembly simulation of handwashing to the tunes of the A-B-C’s, learners had looked forward to the suds and glorious clean and fragrant smells each day. Later I circulated letters of gratitude for learners and educators to sign for the store owners for which learners delivered and pleasantly reported back about the bright smiles they received for the thanks; again I felt there was a disconnect between the weeks purpose-possibly killing disease / learning how to adequately care for ones self to prevent spread of disease, but I am confident that there was a lesson of thanks and compassion, which learners were able to experience- rather than sit in on and hear about.
Traditional isNdebele festival
October 25, 2008 my frustrations are centered on the fact that I am still living out of suitcases. I have spent the last 6 weeks searching for a home-stay since I was mistakenly placed within my principal’s home. It appears few are willing to loan an outside room of their home to a stranger, a white, a foreigner, a 2 year commitment. Patiently, I have greeted and met with homes and questioned whether it would be my new safe place. This new place of comfort is so important as I am away from what is a usual place identified with home-familiarity. Now I am in need of shelter and safety and am accepting for the most part- who ever it is that will be sharing space with me. Cross your fingers, there has been progress and I am putting the final efforts into burglar proofing approval and completion and will be relocating in the next week(s!).

Preservice training and a new look

Adam trimming and finished do

I have successfully completed a single month of my training to become a Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV). My time thus far has been fulfilling in a great many ways. As any nontraditional path may lead-a sequence of mysteries comes with each new day. But, I am well aware that this time in our so-called, “gated community” in Troya, Mpumelanga Province only offers a peak at what is to come at our final site placements.
Getting to know myself and a new culture, one of my mothers and her daughter Lungile,who named me

As a trainee-My home stay contains 5 sisters, the youngest of which recently gave birth to a baby boy. I also have 3 brothers. All of these adults are over the age of 20 and have played a vital role, along with my two-toothed mother, in helping me feel comfortable in my new home. They have laughed at my determination and of course declaration to do everything myself. They have also been humored by my rebellious teen hair-do, my interest in hanging with the neighbor boys, birth encouraging dances, and attempts at language. Most fulfilling is that they have given me thanks for my evening homework assistance and babysitting(9 small children also live in my home, their mothers are my sisters), and have said that they prefer I respond as sassy to their remarks about my recent weight gains.
Already, I am feeling more myself on this journey, than in anything I have done thus far in my life. Many of you recall my unpleasant home-stay or traumatic experiences from my time in Ghana, and although I hope not to constantly refer to this past travel, it is an experience which has shaped who I am and so at time, I apologize for referencing it, it deserves a bit of attention…for it has surely led me to where I am now. Anyhow, I am noticing more and more how differently I view and react towards situations. It should be noted that I am making wiser decisions this round traveling. Reflecting on past experiences and moving ahead positively is in its self empowering and keeps me moving and grooving!
Language-isiNdebele language which is spoken by less than 3% of SA population is what myself and four other trainees are studying. I know that if I make an effort to self direct my learning on a daily basis in addition to our language learning sessions, I am doing as asked of me..but at time I know I am not giving my all, I hope to devote more time to studying in the coming weeks..as my Language exam is fast approaching.

Living accommodations

My bedroom houses my own personal bathroom, that is I have a bucket for bathing and a slightly smaller bucket to relieve myself. In the morning my duties include making water to boil(setting a fire at around 5:30am), bathing, tossing bath water, tossing pee bucket in the pit latrine. I am for the most part drinking the water - most often boiling my water anyhow to take tea. I have experienced some illness with a week of severe sinus headaches and still having some reoccurring headaches, which may or may not be due to dehydration or stress. I am trying my best to keep well and am happy to have a fantastic PCMO Melissa who is quick to cater to our needs, and has already equipped me with additional nose sprays for my annoying allergies!

At this time in Mpumelanga, it is the windy season and I am thankful to have survived my first winter (including below 40 degree mornings and evenings-no fun at all!) However, with the increase of dust storms or rather my bodies low resistance to non-purified water/increase intake of peanut butter and chocolate(my comfort foods!) my skin and hair have each had their own unique reactions. Post adolescence in The States I experienced the annoyance of pimples..but here I have a permanent swarm of these devils covering my forehead-SAfricans are quick to comment that they are in direct correlation to my love for SA-since I must be staying out all day in the sun/a tale says that there must be someone in love with you if one should appear.
traditional plate of food for guests: rice(instead of pap), chicken, and various salads(sides)baked beans and mayo, squash, tomato and vegs
Humiliating the 15+ times but I am getting into the routine of strangers commenting about my physique..and there is some truth in onlookers comments-I am happy here and I am getting fat..which I can pleasantly not worry too much about. I am adjusting my diet-however everyone that knows me well is aware that I seldom leave a plate that isn’t clean and that no matter my days intake-I can not turn down a fruit or veg, which I am happy both are in abundance here. Shaving my hair is one of my greatest moments thus far and I am sure returning to a full head of hair is going to be a challenge so those of you still interested in finding me the perfect man to come home to in 2010 update the masses.

I am realizing in a great many ways South Africans are receiving little authentic information about USA (besides that for which they receive from Bold and the Beautiful), this is unfortunate since the typical American is capable of seeking out themselves, there are just not the resources here for even the most inquisitive-lack of computers or newspapers with factual information(the amount of lies spread about HIV/AIDS by prominent figures is appalling and it is no wonder there is such a need for help in this area…I have heard the Health department say A Beet A Day Keeps the AIDS Away which refers to the popular red beet root enjoyed by many) . I am placing priority in making myself as comfortable as possible(ridding my hair) in hopes to put most of my daily efforts towards my work here, rather than those little annoyances that I rather not care for.
language group Steven-Mjama, mina-Lungile, Adam-Umpho, facilitator: Baregile, Dave-Jabu, Jo-Thandi
Our technical training sessions learning include the following and more, all of which have been introduced by Language Facilitators, locals that have themselves created sustainable projects although the odds may have been against them, professionals in education, corporate leaders and PC staff and current SA PCVs.
Some general advice I have been provided and have found useful in my everyday routine but hope they also find you well!
-be at peace with yourself
-it is your independence that is greatest because there may not always be someone, you must maintain who you are
-we are here to learn together
-prioritizing will keep you on your path
-being assertive and talking as an adult rather than a critical parent (in my case)
-respect religions they have a place just as a person’s culture
-listen with an open heart
-change challenges into opportunities
-find those motivated individuals they indeed exist and will help with the community’s large need
Not so different
South Africa has been identified as a complex place with potential, despite the racial oppression. As I have stated in previous blogs the economic status of this country makes for a great many possibilities for South Africa’s people however this is only once the level playing field set by their constitution is actually played on.
Similarly, the racial oppression in America has made a face in today’s society. So many may ask what makes any American an expert or change agent in this foreign place? It is suggested that once we identify the other element of what it is to be an American especially the strengths and power we hold as a resource, one will achieve understanding of themselves, confidently take part in cultural exchange and be better able to assist the needs of our new friends.
The act of critically thinking has been an element of America’s school systems and has been promoted and modeled at a professional level. Most Americans hold the capability to critically think and have grown up in a safe environment with an emphasis for individualism; the backbone to many of our nations successes. An ugly concept I see in the states and in South Africa is the ignorant persons that are resisting transformation. This can be seen simply in the teenage child who associates a certain race to a quality of life and does not recognize what they have just made mention to has been done and its effects are still being seen present day.

Despite failure of society to nurture all young people, there are a great many young individuals excelling. The schools are offering the new learner opportunities I had as a student in the states. However, Apartheid legacy will be a component especially in rural poor community life and surely relinquishing the collar which appears to hold an entire community together will take a great deal more than the single pieces of advice I am to take with me. Many residents feel that as they sleep surrounded by family in the village, the land is their identity, and resist moving to larger towns. However in the rural setting a lack of exposure to differences is more likely to continue the prejudice trend. Understanding the needs of those I am assisting their history, persons, values, and the process of working with this lands people given their circumstances while giving special attention to individual persons in hopes of not forgetting the countries collective needs and history.
First we must understand where we have come from. In what ways can we recognize our own values, see the similarities and listen to what is needed according to the community?

The following are the race titles that are accepted by many South Africans-
Whites(Afrikans), Blacks, Coloureds, and Indians.
For long there has been a perception that each subgroup holds a similar belief system. This is a key element of Apartheid, the dividing or the grouping for internal separation.
One speaker Marissa identified that , “my Coloured identification demonstrated that apartheid didn’t work-because the races were to have been kept separated.” She also identified the means of identifying race, whether the newborn child during the Apartheid era were to have record as a Black or Coloured-by their baby gum liner colors and hair tendency to hold a pen, which influenced division within families as well.
our pit toliet

Now as the political structure has changed, economically things have stayed the same-class is set on racial structure since families that are in wealth have stayed in wealth and the poor have stayed poor. Many challenges occurring within races are those influenced by the jealous who find it unfair some of their “kind”, are succeeding. Many South Africans are suggesting there is little cohesive national identity because of the still obvious economic needs of certain communities. Many identify and will introduce themselves as a Black South African, or Afrikaner, rather than a South African. While others suggest that there is a healing process that is incomplete for many South Africans and has its place in this stagnated situation. While looking ahead a new generation of angry free-children wanting and wanting (influenced by the Western world) is leading some to use South Africa’s history as their crutch or excuse for stealing as a means to provide for their family, while never gathering the effects this history had on their family since many are no longer alive.
SA History
In workshops we have reviewed history since 1300 including the colonization, central figures, (especially Verwoerd’s role who suggested that educating Black should not be a privilege since their placement in society is to only be in the field of labor), conflicts, and religions role.
Defining Equality: all have same opportunity and access to resource
The constitution identifies diversity in South Africa as religion, gender, race, culture, language, religion, sexual orientation, or differently able.
1994’s change according to some experts came too fast too soon. Culture is also being replaced by religion since a great deal of people find a need for hope for which history has slated religion as being the word to offer such hope.
Education
Apartheid Education Policies:
Bantu Education- substandard education system for Blacks; Former C Education- Education for Whites
Current Education Policies: National Curriculum Standard- Outcome Based Education(OBE) and Continuous Assessment
Corporal punishment: has been outlawed since 1998, but still readily used in schools especially rural villages where there is little accountability. The Department of Education visited PC Training and urged trainees that we, “hold hands to defend rights of children worldwide”-suggesting that we directly contact them regarding abuse; however this would most likely compromise one’s relations with their target schools and community, and therefore there are other procedures that a PCV may take given this is the situation at their schools. This is drastically different from my interaction with the schools in Ghana 2005-2006. I was advised to use the schools policies-public humiliation etc. and if necessary went to a teacher for help in caning a student. I am pleased to hear that SA is discouraging these practices. However, it is unfortunate that SA has no system in place to check teacher adherence to polices. Homes are still practicing this method of discipline which is conflicting with school policies and parents are misinformed about research based practices found to be less detrimental to child development. In what ways can we help to re-humanize the children, teachers, families?

NCS Education-a great on paper plan to equalize education
My first visits to schools on the surface revealed needs that are similar to that in American schools: management at all levels and accountability for teachers and students. These target areas are substantial to students receiving adequate information and must be in place to ensure successful learning. I am sure I will spend a great deal of time workshopping with teachers concerning these areas but they are exhausting. Critical Thinking, this process of individually deciding according to information provided, for which is recognized as a fundamental need for learners, is something I feel more passionate about. There is also quite a disconnect in English instruction as a 2nd language which begins at around grade 4. Language plays an important role in students taking information and processing into knowledge. Teachers are unable in many ways to meet the needs of the learners having had only a bit of English instruction as a student themselves and having been educated during the Bantu Education system.
I am looking forward to working with HIV/AIDS projects to help further community health and also working to implement recycling if there is a need for it in my community. All projects will be directly correlated with my target communities needs. I am also advised to use the PC Grass-root development roles and procedures to increase the likelihood that those projects and events remain sustainable, to further the communities’ development past my own 2 year commitment. Grass-root development techniques are vital to any of my coming interactions with the community since long lasting effects are worthwhile to the people I am serving.

My approximate PC agenda:
8/25-visiting final site placement-target schools, new home, community chiefs, community VIP,etc.
9/12-language exam, swearing in as an official PCV!!
9/13-move to final site, unable to leave site, complete assignments getting to know new community and it’s people, selecting a few counterparts for suggested projects
1/09-possibly begin teaching Maths, as a means to build credibility with community and target school faculty, receiving permission from community officials, begin planning

week til departure

highly asked question: How am I feeling given that my time to leave for my travels is coming near? Simply put, I am looking forward to my new adventure but sad to say goodbye. Lately a great deal of anxiety anticipating the learning load kicks in especially as I find another item I don't think I can bare to live without in South Africa. PC allows us to take two checked bags, one of which is filled with your essentials and the other which will be stored with PC until my PC 3 month training is completed.
When it comes to possessions, I would consider myself a minimalist, however if you ask me to select which stress relievers or books to select for my journey, I feel divided between the luxuries of a first-world country that creates overwhelming situations needing stress relievers which are easy to access. And the emptiness of a third-world country that sends one into a state of shock provided there is no television or typical conversation, but unfortunately it is likely this world won't hold the resources to meet my interests. we have met our CONUNDRUM!
On the upside: My recent visits with family and friends were everything I could have hoped for! I appreciate everyones encouragement and expression of interest! I am very thankful to have such a loving group of people in my life! I can't think of anything greater than being loved by others.
And a final proposal to all my new readers, a challenge: keep up with my blog. If anything you can scavenge through my writing for grammar usage mistakes (I know there are quite a few), I will make you feel better about your inability to find something to watch on TV, or I will feed your procrastination addiction.

Some resources provided by PC

SA
www.countrywatch.com
U.S. State Department
About.com SA
China and Africa

Connect with returned PCV
blogs from RPCV
blogs from PCV

the Mail and Guardian, a progressive weekly newspaper
the Sunday Independent, which features articles on development issues
Institute for a Democratic Alternative in South Africa
Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation
A United Nations site with thorough information on the AIDS epidemic
World Bank, for information related to development aid
HIV/AIDS worldwide

Address

So here is my address in SA from when I leave in July until about mid-September. I am expecting lots of letters! Yesterday, I received a note from good friend Davy who has been recently sworn in as a PCV in Zambia, and the support her kind words offered is greatly appreciated, I am looking forward to being a serious pen pal with her and all of you who choose to write!

Haley McDonough
Peace Corps
PO Box 9536
Pretoria 0001
South Africa

So here is the deal, it costs $.95 to mail a letter to South Africa, and be sure to write “Airmail” on the envelop. That way it gets there faster!
Also, when you mail a package (I hear padded envelops work the best) write “Educational Supplies” or “Religious Materials” on there.
I promise to write back! So get out your stationery and get to writing! Thanks in advance!

departure July 12

NPR series on South Africa
^check it out, listen in your free time
busy packing, wish I had a good friend to assist me with selecting brands and etc..mother and I are having quite the fun time as we wander around the various shoe/sports/camping stores.

my oh my do I have a great deal to purchase: 3 different sorts of adventure shoes(I am trying to remind myself their purpose and fashion will not have any sort of connection and that is OK), solar charger for my Ipod, Backpack, Water purifier, special undies, books, meds, and fun accessories: mostly camping gadgets..I'm hoping will have worthwhile placement in my 2 checked bags...oh my!
*Carly(sista) is letting me borrow her head lamp that survived Ecuador, yes! I hope it doesn't fall in a pit latrine..like friend Davy's did!

I am leaving to visit good friend Nicky this Friday in Chicago (my first visit here and an item on my bucket list-which I feel there is a need to attempt prior to PC departure!), following this event I have quite the busy schedule before departure to D.C. on July 12.
Everett's 21st bday celebration is July 28, I am using this as an excuse to celebrate with friends on mom and pop's allowance, I hope all that can attend will join us!
Following weekend is full of 4th celebrations especially that with family in PA! I will be traveling from Columbus to meet them, seeing a few friends here especially one (Ruef)coming all the way from Prague to celebrate at Red, White, and Boom..I can not wait!

I am grateful to be given this opportunity and am trying to remain focused as I complete paperwork and close up life in America...which is a great deal more difficult than I had thought, being that I am only 22 and have very little of my own, since I am still dependent on Mom and Dad. My room is a mess..I am trying to clean up my childhood bedroom and pack away school work..as I have been threatened that 2 years may not hold up at Hampton Place and so my life is temporarily in tupperwear. too much fun.

Unbuto: a traditonal African concept

Often South Africans are in search of answers to their past sorrow and have collectively relied on the colonial philosophy: Unbuntu
Unbunto meaning: 'I am because we are, and since we are, therefore I am'

translation: you have made me into the person- 'It is through others that one attains selfhood.'
I am because of compassion and generosity (some additionally place the concept of tolerance)

View for a better understanding in Nelson Mandela YouTube

Additional Resources: South African Government

Africa forum facts

Africa contains 2,000 different languages and 53 independent countries.

Africa can hold China, Alaska, Europe, and the U.S., Is it easier to comprehend the size of this continent?

Nelson Mandela often referred to by South Africans as "our hero" the most significant African leader elected president in 1991, devoted to resisting the apartheid government-he greatly influenced South Africa's final independence in 1994.

Larger affluent cities making up South Africa:
Johannesburg (where I am supposing my preservice training will take place) and Cape Town

South Africa has the largest economy in Africa.

clarification, how long?

I usually refer to length as PC volunteer as 2 years because it is 2 years of PC volunteer service I must complete, once orientation(D.C.) and training are complete
2 years.. is an easy reference..but if you want to get technical..there are details in an earlier blog (see dates below).

I am not a volunteer until I am sworn in, which isn't until a 3 month training period is complete.
Training usually takes place not in my final community setting, rather a central location that all volunteers from the country(about 30) can meet at.

Once training is complete, I will complete 24 months of service in a village by myself.

Making this a total of 27 months inwhich I am out of the country, estimated return: September 11, 2010.

and I have accepted

I called for acceptance today. I was required to share with the placement assistant what my service work actually consisted of. Once I summarized my duties, I was told about my coming deadlines concerning filing for passport and visa and writing an aspiration statement.
Blog
Since I only began blogging a year ago, my proof-reading, writing and formating may not be up to par until post graduation..as I am busy with school and this PC preparation and don't have the time to reread some of my postings. I have been basically copy and pasting emails I have been sending out to friends.

From this point on, I will be simply referring people to my blog for answers, as I don't have a great deal of time to chit-chat, however am interested in sharing my fabulous news!!

So please, take the time to read provided details, and check out links prescribed as they will give you clarification to answers I am only beginning to receive through my own research.

This is a completely new place to me-that is "my purpose for blogging" "place for which I am blogging about".
I have some prior knowledge about Africa-due to my own travels to Ghana in Fall 2006, but this experience can not begin to generalize what is to come of serving in Peace Corps.

What I am realizing now, is that it is unfortunate although I attended grade and middle-school through an era of South Africa's rebirth-I was educated very little about the apartheid activities that didn't finally cease until 1997. This is in a culture where educating its youth is absolutely required and promoted..so unfortunate,

And after a bit of discussion with art and Africa extraordinare Jessa, I realize what I do remember from 1997.
1997 is the same time: many Americans were more consumed with Pop culture and downfall of rockstar Curt Kilbane , and the unusual assault of ice-skater Nancy Kerrigan.
How many of you can remember these commercial events going down in history? Beyond these wonders little is known about worldly events of the time.

and so I ask myself...what am I thinking encountering this truly, unexposed place-South Africa.
I have faith my placement has been thoroughly thought out,
What I know is I am ready to provide all the knowledge that I have to offer, and take in all that this experience has to give.
best, xox

at a glance

Some details on my coming travels (then I must get back to work)-
West Africa (because of my previous travels to Ghana and French language background) had been my initial area of interest but placement is according to a need basis and at this time...

-I am an excellent candidate for work in a rural, often impoverished village in the country of South Africa. There are a few provinces that I may be assigned but I don't know specifics except that these are rural/ farm communities that were systematically ignored or under-served during the apartheid era.

I will be serving a total of 27 months and my assignment consists of
assisting teachers in improving classroom practices, including observations and feedback, demonstration lessons, team teaching and workshops on classroom management, lesson planning, creating learning aids with available resources, develop teacher critical thinking skills,
and some opportunities to teach Math.
I will also assist teachers with strategies for teaching life skills- HIV/AIDS, and emphasis on phasing in English.

I am aware there is a great deal to prepare-but this be mainly purchasing necessities for traveling(post graduation), completing travel documents(currently), completing class work(prior to graduation), completing MasterResearchPaper(prior to graduation).

news and information

• Currently, Volunteers are working in
• Provinces located in NE of country, view below for details
  
• the Limpopo,Mpumalanga, North West, and Kwa Zulu Natal provinces.
  
• in 1997 Volunteers began serving in Republic of South Africa
• Volunteers work with clusters of 3 to 4 schools
• HIV/AIDS outreach projects began in 2001 and play a significant role in a Volunteers service
• Projects involve community, school, and government advising concerning to their effectiveness in school instruction and the inclusion of the English language, and HIV/AIDS outreach project developments offering suggestions for potential improvement.
  

Your Assignment

Country: Republic of South Africa

Program: Schools and Community Resource Project

Job Title: Resource Specialist

Orientation (in Washington D.C.): July15,2008-July 17, 2008

Pre-Service Training (in South Africa): July 18-September 11, 2008

Dates of Service(in particular province not yet determined):
September 12, 2008-September 11, 2010

I suggest you check out the below for greater specifics:
BOOK of Information

My invite arrived

I was astonished to receive word from PC about an update at my PC online account. When I visited PC online I navigated my way through password changing and the new front.
Finally, I found it the sentence that confirmed this was so happen..you have been sent an invitation on May 22. And where does that take me next, after just enough barriers..I finally received the FedEx express and since it contained the offer I had not been anticipating, I quickly ran through the literature describing the job assignment I had been offered.