When I returned to site, it was back to work. The outcomes from the leadership training of college scholars in June have been pretty amazing. Not all of the scholars' project ideas have panned out, but they have been undeterred and have taken it upon themselves to continue organizing their community. They recently held representative elections and have begun to set up tutoring schedules led by teachers and fellow students alike. It is so great to see the pride they have in their community, and to feel a part of that.
In addition to that, it has been a kind of bittersweet month. The previous batch of volunteers is preparing to finish their service, and many of them have already left the Bicol region. Our own friend here in Sorsogon, Chanelle, has already left for Manila and we will miss her very much. In early July, the volunteers in the Bicol region got together in Naga City for what's called a "despidida". This is basically a going-away party you have for departing friends. It was a ton of fun! We went out clubbing, and the next day got food at a fantastic vegan restaurant. It was definitely a change a pace from the daily Peace Corps life. The sad part was that I realized how much I loved these people, and how soon they would be leaving. At the very least, it was a memorable last get together with some really cool people. As Chanelle leaves, I am taking over her single apartment in a barangay across the city from where my host family stays. I'll miss staying with my host family (they are fantastic people) but the independence will be nice. Here are some pics of the new place:
Lastly, over the weekend a former PCV who volunteered in the country of Mozambique came through our site and stayed with my site mate, Dorothy. Naturally, we took it upon ourselves to show her some of the cool things to see in Sorsogon City! She was saying how she really tries to connect with Peace Corps Volunteers when she travels, because Peace Corps is kind of like a big family and you always know that people will be there to help you out. I though that was really cool, not only because it makes travel cheaper but because you get to experience the culture from the perspective of someone who is integrated. The best way to travel in my opinion. :)
My site mate and I trying to knock down some coconuts.
Anyway, exciting things are happening next month! I will be travelling to my old training site in Bagac, Bataan to be a Resource Volunteer for the new batch of volunteer trainees. A Resource Volunteer is basically someone who explains what it is like to be a PCV and live in the country for so long. I'm beyond excited to meet the batch and share my experiences! I'll write an update next month about how everything goes. Until then, peace!
