“Zero at the Bone: The Playboy, the Prostitute, and the Murder of Bobby Greenlease” by John Heidenry. The true crime novel sent from America (thanks Dad!) which I can’t seem to put down.
Chewable Pepto Bismals : Is there much more to say about this? I hear these are as equally vital upon returning to America and trying to readjust to processed food.
Contacts: Peace Corps suggests not bringing contact lenses when going to countries you serve in. Some Peace Corps countries, however, are considered less of a hazard and you are given more of a “bring at your own risk” warning. Azerbaijan is a “BAYOR” country. My advice: BRING YOUR CONTACTS. It is dusty here, and I have had times where I wished I was wearing my glasses, but overall, these were one of the best items I brought with me to AZ. Solution can only be bought in Baku and is really expensive, but it is worth it.
Single Serve Packets: Anytime other PCV’s are giving away packets, I swarm the area. Instant coffee, Crystal Lite, and Benefibers are gold mines. I also try and scoop up Taco Seasonings, Chili powder, and ranch mixes to spice up my usual lentil/rice dinners.
Lip Balm: Burts Bees and Chapstick, ‘nuff said.
Coffee: I grew up in a coffee drinking family. I worked at Starbucks for three years. I think my blood needs it to be healthy. For sure my sanity does. And I am happier person when I have coffee in the morning. So to my suppliers in America: Thank you. You are making the world a better place by sending me coffee.
Dental Hygiene: Dental Hygiene is virtually non-existent here. It is also popular to get gold teeth, so even if you have only lost a tooth or two to decay, it is really noticeable. So many of the young children have golden teeth, or missing teeth, or black, rotten teeth by the time they graduate high school. It makes me appreciate our education system and my parents for instilling good habits when we were young.
Blogs: I recently added links to a couple blogs that I like to browse when online. I think blogs are really interesting media outlets. The world of blogs reminds me a giant store where are the clothes are in boxes you have to sift through. Usually it is a large task and completely overwhelming, but when you find something good, it is always worth it. When I really have a lot of time on my hands I like to shamelessly look through other Peace Corps volunteer blogs at Peace Corps Journals. I think this organization is starting to be addicting. Usually, though, I check out Janae and Josh's blogs before I log off. Josh recently added a new tab (sub blog?) called Teaching for Leaders. It has good tips for individuals or groups about improving leadership skills and abilities. Check it out.
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