Maseru sun

I arrived in Maseru on my birthday, best birthday present ever. The plane ride was in a word TERRIFYING because it was the smallest plane ever invented, it couldn't even hold us all and our luggage in 2 trips! 45 mins into the trip I spotted a smudge on the horizon. Then, over the next 15 mins Lesotho rose out of the flat expanse like a giant fortification. Its no wonder the Basotho fled here and were able to protect themselves. This time of year it is very dry here. The nights have been very cold but not too different from mid winter in Oregon. Daytime however is strangely warm. The intense African sun is able to break the frost of the night early and it warms to close to 70 F at times. Yesterday was a little cooler, probably only 55. Everyone I am meeting are great people. The Basotho people, especially the bo-me are so generous and friendly. They culture is much more hands on than I am used to. So far the only really culturally unique experience I have had is at the grocery store here in Maseru, which is just like ours back at home, the bag woman grabbed my hand and put her other hand to my chest. The Women do this to symbolize being close to your heart. Where back in America touching other people and being physically close is frowned upon, everyone here is hugging or touching, or letting the person they are speaking with know that they care. Personal relationships are key in this culture. Next week we get to move to our training villages which will be a nice break from the walled area we have spent the last couple weeks. Our weekly trips into Maseru are the only thing that keep me and some of the others sane. Training is intense but we are learning so much that will only make us more successful. The beauty of this country is something I cant even put into words, even though this is the dry season. I am slowly picking up the language and eagerly await getting to be a part of a Basotho family. My hair is getting pretty unruly so I may have to find some bo-Me to braid it for me, and next week we start bathing out of a bucket so it will be even harder to take care of. Sorry I haven't written in so long. I may not be able to be on often, and currently my time at the Internet cafe is expired. Sala Hantle, stay well !