All Good Things...

In less than a week, I’m off to my newest home and I’m a little scared.

Weird huh? I’ve moved literally halfway around the world and now I’m scared about moving a few hundred kilometers.

Yet, I am. Living at my training site has gotten cozy. I’ve got a set schedule. I am learning at a steady pace. I’ve made some friends. I can meet work expectations with few minor glitches. Everything is pretty radtacular.

Nevertheless, soon I’m going to be one of five Americans living in a region 37 times the size of Nome. I’m expected to be a representative of my country and culture. I’m expected to adapt and to assimilate. I’m expected to succeed.

You’d think I would have thought about this all before I put pen to paper... and I did, but when faced with the realities of it, boy does it get real.

Good thing I brought all my Star Trek TNG dvds. I could used a little advice from the Enterprise 1701-D crew.

Amerikan Bayrama

Holidays are a big deal in Azerbaijan (hence why I want you to send me holiday cards) and whether you believe in Jesus or the Giant Spaghetti Monster, voted for McCain or OBAMA!, almost all Americans get festive for a little turkey and some pumpkin pie!

Obviously, Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated here in Azerbaijan, but that didn’t stop any of us from getting together to celebrate overeating and or discuss highlights from ESPN.com.So, in honor of Thanksgiving, I’ve made a brief list of things I am thankful for:

• The season collection of TNG;
• Titanium cups and sporks named Pat;
• Parents with disposable incomes which allow for shipments of books and chocolate;
• A sister who puts up with my costly text messages;
• Friends who plan international trips;
• New friends who invite me to improvised holiday dinners;
• Host families, host organizations, Alekpr and Vafa;
• Text messaging; and finally,
• Nasal decongestant and cough drops.

Azǝrbaycanda Amerikan Bayramadır.

Permanent Site

Travel books call it the Paris of Azerbaijan, but I disagree. It’s should be called Paradise, because that’s exactly it.

Established in 1929, Zaqatala (pronounced Zagatala) boasts a population of 111,600 including peoples from the 59 surrounding villages. Known for it’s nuts and beautiful women, Zaqatala’s population is the most diverse in Azerbaijan with 26 different nationalities represented within their 23,844 hectares.

Besides the facts, my first impressions of Zaq are ones of complete rapture and awe. This place has got it all. Great history, beautiful architecture, warm and friendly people, and lots of access to green space and great hiking. 

I am so happy I am breaking out into random “Making the Pizza” dance moves (a bit bittersweet without you, Sarah).