Living in paradise, or close to it

Suprisingly I'm able to write another blog post already. I just got back from a week living at the village that will be my home for the next two years. I am feeling so lucky right now because I managed to be placed in one of the few areas in Niger that has huge trees and grassy fields. Everyone in the village seems very excited to have me there. My first day, a lady came up to my and said, "Hi I'm Hadiza. I'm your mom. These are my daughters. They are your best friends. Anything you need, just let us know." Talk about welcoming me into their family!

My house is huge with two rooms and a nice concession. I have had some bug issues because there hasn't been someone living there for the past three years. Within the first 24 hours, I killed hundreds of spiders, a cockroach, a scorpion, dodged wasps flying in and out of their nests, and had a face off with a mouse who has built his home under my floor. But suprisingly I handled it all very well.

Kiota, the nearest town to me is a beautiful 45 minute walk away along a tree-lined street. I can get all the basics there. I asked my friend where I can charge my cell phone, and she took me into the sheik's consession and said they will charge it for me whenever I want. Not many people can say that. I should get to meet him when I move in permanently. I get full cell phone reception at my house so try giving me a call whenever you want, as long as it's not the middle of the night.

So it's taken some effort, but I got some pictures up. Enjoy. The last one is of my host sister during wedding festivities. I don't always dress like this, but it was fun for the occassion. Can't wait to hear from you all!