To say that I was in panic mode the morning of my Peace Corps presentation is an understatement; I couldn’t open any files on my computer. Fortunately my local Geek Squad came to the rescue at my local “Best Buy” store.
I had not prepared or practiced my presentation, as I wanted to enjoy my holiday with my sons in San Clemente, but thanks to Julia Capizzi, the Orange County recruiter who set-up my event at Mimi’s Cafe in Irvine, California, my Peace Corps presentation was well attended, and a lot of fun.
I couldn’t believe how many friends, and people I’ve met online through my blog postings, wanted to attend and learn more about the Peace Corps, and my life as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho.
I had over 100 slides, and shared the application process, the ten-week training in Ha Koali, and our host family photos, followed by the swearing-in at the U.S. Ambassador of Lesotho’s home, and my life teaching the orphans and vulnerable children at my site.
There were many questions about the Peace Corps which Julia Capizzi answered, and I had several questions about my school, the children and my daily life.
Most of the attendees were 50+, so a good crowd to explain the benefits of serving as an older volunteer.
So many brought donations for my school, especially books and DVDs, which I had requested for the children in my community.
I am at LAX as I write this blog post, waiting for my flight back to Lesotho. My first flight is 16 hours long, and my second flight is 8 hours, plus a third one that’s only one-hour. So this is half way across the world from California.
Thanks to all who are interested in following my adventures, and next post will be about my village and the children.
Halfway across the world from California in so many ways. How would you say your brief visit back affected you?
A great question Suellen. I was worried about driving again, especially on the right side of the road, as they drive on the left in Lesotho.
What surprised me is how quickly I adapted to life in OC after 9 months in Lesotho. I almost felt like I’d never left, and that my “other” life was a dream.
I also believe that I’m more in love with California now, and have a more positive oulook on OC, than I did before I left. This could also be due to my divorce.
Sonia Marsh recently posted..Panic Mode The Morning of My Peace Corps Presentation
Extensive travel and living in other countries for years not only gave me an inside view of other cultures, but also expanded my view of the U.S. through my own eyes, as well as the opportunity to see America through the eyes of the cultures I visited.
Suellen,
You are right. I did not expect to see the US through “different” eyes, but it made me appreciate how life is so much easier in many respects in California. I also love the climate, which I took for granted when I lived there.
Sonia Marsh recently posted..Panic Mode The Morning of My Peace Corps Presentation
Sonia, I am so enjoying your adventures in the Peace Corps. And, I am so glad you got to take a break and visit family. Thank you for doing what you do. You have touched so many with your enthusiasm and sharing of your talents. I wish you safe travels as you return to your school and children.
Liz, I’m answering your comment at the airport in Dubai, waiting for my connection to Johannesburg.
I love to travel and experience new adventures, and it will be interesting to see what happens at my school when I return to teach, next week.
Sonia Marsh recently posted..Panic Mode The Morning of My Peace Corps Presentation
I hope you have a safe trip back to Lesotho, and fit easily back into your teaching routine.
I’m also interested in your answer to Suellen’s question (above).
Blessings and Bear hugs.
Rob-bear, I answered her question which I thought was an interesting one, from someone who has also lived in many parts of the world.
Sonia Marsh recently posted..Panic Mode The Morning of My Peace Corps Presentation
You must be so proud of your sons!
Best wishes for your teaching.
Yes, Carol. It was wonderful to see all three of them again. They miss me, which I did not expect to hear from them.
Sonia Marsh recently posted..Panic Mode The Morning of My Peace Corps Presentation