Maggie's Journey to Armenia

I spent this past weekend in Tsachadzor with my Gorts Enker, Armik for a Counterpart Conference. Within two days, we learned all about lesson planning, cultural differences, and our professional relationship. More importantly, we were able to spend quality time with each other outside of the classroom. I am not sure how much of the conference material will transfer into our work relationship but I have a feeling that the weekend together was helpful either way.

We stayed in a Sport Complex that many of the Armenian professionals train at throughout the year. Since many of us health volunteers have P.E. teachers for counterparts, we decided that a volleyball match might be a good idea on Saturday night. The evening started out as an Armenian vs. American game but was soon changed to international teams as the Armenian men were sorely beating us. Sunday night, many of the Americans went bowling. It was a lot of fun but unfortunately, the counterparts didn’t accompany us. I have a feeling we could have made up for our weak volleyball skills.

The weekend was good for several other reasons as well. As much as I came here to indulge myself in another’s culture, I am finding any bit of home very welcomed. It was great to see other volunteers. To hear their experiences and know that I am not alone, to speak my native language, and to not be questioned about my American ways; I feel these are all necessary every once in awhile while living abroad.

The past couple days have been holidays here… I have been noticing there are a lot of holidays in Armenia. I look forward to head back to school in a day and progress my professional life here (to the extent of my language skills).

Today marks my one month anniversary as a PCV and calling Sevan, Armenia my home.  When I told my host sister we have lived together for one month, she gave me an appropriate, “Shnorhavor.”  I have had PLENTY of time to relax up until last week.  Morning runs, afternoon reading, and evening walks around the shuka became my routine. But now that work has started I am feeling all sorts of new emotions.  What do I wear? Am I being culturally appropriate?  When can I eat?  Did my counterpart invite me over after school or did I misunderstand?  I know that everything will fall into place but right now it feels overwhelming.  Fortunately, I have had plenty of amazing experiences already that make up for the awkward ones.  I know that I have to continue practicing my patience (and Armenian) but, I am so excited to start doing stuff here!