Things I learned from my time in Boliva!

I cannot believe I have been in Bolivia almost two months! It really is crazy! I am enjoying everyday, and feel like a new lesson is learned every minute. Carol, a fellow volunteer, has inspired me to keep a list of things I learned in Bolivia! So here are a few very important lessons I have learned!

1. Napkins are a waste! Here in Bolivia, you will usually not receive a napkin with your meal because they are expensive. If you are lucky enough to get a napkin, each person only gets one. This does help with a waste problem! Some places, like the Maryknoll Volunteer House, use towels to cut down on waste and expenses.

2. Water should be used sparingly! The first day I moved into the girls´ home, the Tias reminded me that water is not easy to come by here, that it is expensive, and needs to be used sparingly. So, I turn the water off while shampooing and conditioning my hair, while I am brushing my teeth, and while I am sponging dirty dishes. There was a huge "water war" in Bolivia, and those difficult times are still present in people´s minds. Many Bolivians did not have water during the "water war" because they could not afford it. So, water is definitely not wasted, and is seem as a treasure.

3. Food should never be wasted! Even if there is a little of my yogurt left from breakfast, the tias will not throw it out. Someone will eat it. Carol and I were discussing that many people probably realize that a lot of people within Bolivia do not have food, so what food one has must be used and not wasted. The girls and babies must eat everyting they are given to ensure that no food is being wasted.

4. Handmade cards are the way to go! This lesson for me is difficult because I am horrible at art. But, for any special occasion, including birthdays, Christmas, and Friendship day, which just passed, the girls will make cards. And, they are absolutely beautiful! Cards are extremely expensive here, so the best way to celebrate something is to make a card. I will try my best to continue this tradition when I return home!

5. Hugs and kisses are always appreciated! The girls and babies at the homes cannot get enough hugs and kisses! So, I try and give them as much love as possible. The babies love when you kiss their hands and blow on their tummies, just like my mom and dad used to do to me! And, the girls will lay their heads on your arm or back. I will never take the hugs and kisses I receive for granted anymore!

There are tons more lessons I have leraned, but I have to head to work soon. More than learning lessons, I think I have learned to not take what I have and what I receive for granted--running water, electricity, food, and hugs and kisses, especially. More to come from my list of Bolivian lessons!

I miss everyone...A LOT! Sending lots and lots of love!