On the Move in Jamaica

Carole and I arrived on the 18th of March in Kingston, Jamaica and it has pretty much been non-stop since that time. This is our first opportunity to provide an update and we will try to get better at this.  We have moved twice, to Hellshire and now to Ewarton/Stoney Hill, and have been working out of our suitcase the entire time.  Basically using the top layer of clothes as we don't want to unpack all the stuff until we get to our final destination and that won't be until the 3rd week of May.

We are thoroughly enjoying Jamaica, although from a much different perspective that most Americans would ever realize.  We have been living with Jamaican host families in their homes so it gives us a great chance to learn the culture and enjoy their wonderful hospitality.  We have been trying hard to learn Jamaican Patois at an acceptable level, but that will be an ongoing process for the next two years.

Carole and I are separated now for the next four weeks.  She is at a sector specific training for Youth in Stoney Hill and I am with the Health Sector in Ewarton.  We both have cell phones and can call each other at no charge any time so that makes it a whole lot easier to deal with.  They say separation makes the heart grow fonder and that is so very true.  We are both very much looking forward to finally get at our site (somewhere in Jamaica) and working together (although in different sectors) for the next two years.

So far, Jamaica has been very good for the both of us.  We have shed a few pounds, although we don't know just how much, and the warm, humid climate seems to agree with us.  My blood pressure has dropped down to 110/75 which is really good for me.  Eating lots of healthy foods and walking everywhere certainly has helped the whole routine.

We are hitting the road tomorrow to shadow a current volunteer so we are looking forward to that experience and to learning how to navigate around the country using the transportation system.  Time to get going for the day but we will get another update as soon as we can.