Day 8 - Total Relaxation and Bittersweet Closing

SO. The internet has been a bit off lately, hence the lack of blog posts. I'm attempting to catch up, but the internet still isn't the best. Pictures take forever to upload, so they might be absent from these next few blog posts. I'm a few days behind, so here's the news from Saturday:

Day 8 – Total Relaxation and Bittersweet Closing

Today (Saturday – 7/25/15) was amazing! I did basically nothing, and it was so fantastic. I had kind of an early breakfast (7:30am) with Dan and James, but then I went back to my hotel room and relaxed, read, and eventually got ready for the day. It was beautiful and sunny, so I spent as much time outside as possible.  James and Dan ended up playing soccer with a few kids in front of the hotel, and I played iPad games with the kids as well. They were so adorable and eager to learn! Also, whenever they ask me my name, they think I say “Jackson.” It takes a few times of me pronouncing it “Joss-Lynn” for them to get it. But once they do, it almost sounds like they’re saying my name in a French accent and it’s great!

Later this evening, we had a closing dinner for Dr. Gebreyes, Dr. Wang, and Nicole, and the students who took the classes they taught at University of Gondar (UoG). A lot of important people from UoG were at the dinner to pass out certificates to the class participants. It was really cool to see everyone from Nicole’s communication class again! We also found out that UoG named Ohio State “Best Partner of the Year.” Quite an accomplishment! :) The dinner was awesome, but bittersweet because it meant that Nicole, Dr. Wang, and Dr. Gebreyes were leaving Gondar. I’m really excited to work on other projects in Ethiopia, but I’m going to miss those OSU professors! The good news is Dr. Hoet and Dr. Stevenson (2 more OSU professors) arrive in the next day or two. :)

After the dinner, I had some super exciting plans. I did sink laundry. Let me tell you – I have never missed my tiny little washer and dryer more than I did today. Sink laundry is quite fun. :)

Sink Laundry :)

Speaking of things I miss, Sarah and James (2 students who have been here for about a month) have a list of things they miss most from home. I decided to think about my list. Besides the obvious family and friends, my list currently includes:

- Reliable internet

- Washer/dryer

- Vegetables (I could really go for some crinkle-cut cucumbers and buffalo chicken dip,      Allyson!!!)

- Sandwiches

Short list thus far. :) I’m expecting more food items to be added as my time outside the US increases. That’s all for today! The plan is to head to the Simien Mountains tomorrow, so I’m really excited about that!

Much love,

Joslyn :)

P.S. “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.” John 6:47. Amen to that :) :)