maplove

So yes, I know, I’ve been absent from this blogging thing. Where the heck was I!? A lot has happened this month. I’ve gotten to see gorilla’s, bats that live around the corner and gone boating in a hollowed out tree, killed my 1st shoe size cockroach, named a gecko that I think is still living in or has died in my bedroom, and bought a 6,000 dollar 1997ish (not really sure on the year) Toyota Corolla (remember the taxing I talked about in my previous blog…). In short, Yaounde has been a very interesting and challenging place to move to. The last month has been filled with wonderment, and major homesickness… But luckily the people here are kind, and I am starting to form new friendships. When I arrived here three weeks ago I felt like getting comfortable was a ridiculous challenge. The driving here is like NYC taxis on speed, there really aren’t any benches so sitting and observing is not really an option with out being savvy. Even taking pictures of people is awkward (many don’t like it) and there is so much to photograph! Although I still think it is challenging and intimidating, it is no longer ridiculous to imagine calling this place a home away from home. Life is simple here and Cameroonians feel a lot of pride in their culture. The clothing is colorful, and the food is spicy.

I’m learning a lot about myself. Like how to ask others for help instead of always going it alone. With the locals, a smile gets you a long way and there are a couple bars where I can sit and observe people, I just have to push my self to find these places on my own. Now that I have a car, I feel freer. Driving is sort of fun. (it’s a lot like city driving and feels better when your not a passenger). I haven’t been able to drive with out following or having someone in my car. The roads are jumbled and unnamed, I got lost walking around the corner the other day, so memorization is the way to go. I am not the most talented in this area but I’m keeping the faith, and I can drive to the school now!

The school is pretty great. The students are smart and have tons of potential. The classrooms are set up like a regular American school, but the hallways and gym are outdoors. My office and art room over look the street and rec center’s pool and I have an excellent view of the mountains.

So now that I’ve made you all wait patiently, I will try and keep up with this more!

Tags: Africa, Art education, Cameroon, driving, education, Photography, School, spicy food, toyota, walking