PPST

For all those not familiar with Peace Corps jargon, PPST stands for Post Pre Service Training. Really. Whatever. So for the last two weeks the 24 PCVs in my stage returned to Tubani So to get a little more technical and language training. We had sessions on how to start a health committee, more info on Hearth, and some speakers on female excision, nutrition, breast feeding, and radio programs (did you know that mali has more independant radio stations than any other country in the world? mostly thanks to USAID, actually). It has been really nice to be back here with my friends, as February was a pretty rough month. Another nice thing about being at Tubani So is that we get salad and fresh fruit every single day. Every day! I feel healthy again.

Yesterday I braved the grand marche with a couple friends to pick up some things. When I was sixteen, my mom took me to Gene Jaurez in the mall to get my ears peirced. Everything was very clean and sterile and I sat down and relaxed and when it was done, I passed out. Hit the floor like a rock. Since then, the holes have closed in. Yesterday, I found myself standing on a dirty, busy street corner in the middle of the market while a loud, pushy Malian woman pushed new fake-gold studs through my ears. Didnt even hurt:) I guess that's what 13 vaccinations will do to a person. (Dont worry mom, Im keeping them very clean.)

Wish I had more time, but we're visiting the fine folks at Helen Keller International this morning to check out what they're doing in Mali. K'an ben dooni!