Speak English.

Less than two weeks left in the village! I can't believe it. I really can't.

I gave my Malihai kids a last exam which they failed horribly. Mostly due to the fact that they couldn't read the questions in English. We did it again and let them ask for translations where needed. Hopefully they did better this round; I haven't corrected them yet. My counterpart and I were discussing what to do with the district money we were given for the Mikumi trip that didn't happen which turned into the Parliament trip that didn't happen. We decided to buy a handcart to support the tree nursery; one kid can fetch enough water for the nursery instead of sending a half-dozen or more kids to carry buckets on their heads. And he's arranging a trip to town today to take the kids to visit the local environment offices, drive by the Parliament building, and visit the University of Dodoma (to encourage them in their studies). (I personally feel they've got no chance from the start, given the lack of teachers at the school, but I'm not going to be the dream-crusher this time.) And I've been buying supplies to leave them, tree sacks and a hand saw for pruning, and worrying like a mom sending a kid to camp. Does he need a raincoat? (Its summer.) But what if it rains?! I considered buying hoes even though there are probably 2 hoes per person over the age of 5 in the village.

I've been invited to a few celebrations this week. I guess everyone remembers me now that I'm leaving. It was boring, but I appreciated the invites despite feeling completely out of place as always. I wouldn't be so awkward if they didn't make sit at the head table where everyone can stare at me, even if I don't really know the people being celebrated. I finally got my COS date and medical appointments finalized. And I figured out how to use the internet feature on my phone, too late, I know. I also finished The Three Musketeers. It's been a very busy week. :)

When I get back I'll have about a week left and I'll have to get serious about handing out the presents of my dishes and knickknacks, trying to collect on the loans I made, and cleaning out my house. I do not look forward to this at all. I hate moving!! And it will be sad to leave...