Camping:Peace Corps Style!

First off, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to my wonderful, intelligent, caring and powerful momma Kelly. You have been the best support system while im on this journey and i couldnt do it without you. Everyone needs a mom just like mine because she is awesome! Sometimes we dont realize how important support systems like family until we are away in another country alone, but i have definatly realized how amazing my family is back home, especially my mother! LOVE YOU MOM!



We had our first EC 81 birthday this weekend (HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEPH!), and decided a camping trip would be a good idea. We went up to Victoria, a bumpy 45 minute bus ride to the north part of the island. Our kind bus driver John took us as far as the bus would reach and then we walked about a mile or so to our camp site. It was our first rugged Peace Corps experience in the middle of the woods with no one around but some cows. Our campsite was nettled right next to a beautiful little river that made me think of home. We set up shop and were eager to open the two bags of REAL chips, Doritos and Cheetos. Its a big deal to get the real thing, as they are pretty expensive here. We had some amazing cake and maybe a little drink to wash it down and were set for the evening.



We swam in the river for a little bit but decided the creatures biting on toes wasnt so much fun. There were some other guys there limin before us and they left a camp fire going, so we kindly took over the fire duties as it fit perfectly with our rituals. When you are on a remote island with other people with the same mindset as you, you tend to grow really close to them quickly. I feel like i have known these people for years, but truthfully its only been 3 months. Since we all live very busy lives here on the island and we are spread out across the island, we dont see each other as much as we would like. The group before us started these little rituals we do everytime all of us are together, as a bonding thing. Now i cant give you insight into these, but they are fun! Join the Peace Corps and maybe you will find out. haha.



So after another late night swim, dancing to our sweet handheld radio and roasting marshmellows we called it a night. It was relaxing to be out in the wilderness with no worry of fitting in, getting work done or integrating. It was just a bunch of crazy white Peace Corps volunteers having a blast in the middle of the woods!

The next morning we packed our stuff and hiked the way back to the nearest road. After a crowd of cows decided to try and ram us, we finally flagged down a bus. It was a great weekend with great friends! Camping in the middle of the woods on a remote island: CHECK!