week: minus 2

We got a warning from our desk officer that we may not have internet or phone for a few days after we arrive in ghana.  All should "adopt the mentality that 'no gnus is good gnus.' ”  Do they even have gnus in ghana?  I'll let you know one way or another.  Another beautiful week in Washington!  I think the weather is trying to make me feel sorry that i'm leaving.  We took a two day trip to Canada and visited Manning BC Provincial Park which I drove through about 48 years ago.  It was beautiful, as always, but it was sad to see so many trees affected by bark beetles both in Canada and Eastern Washington on the way home along the Okanogan River and over Bluett Pass.

The Marquardson's at the ward threw a nice open house for me Saturday night and i showed some of the youtube vids of Peace Corps' teacher and volunteer housing.  These may give you and idea of what it may be like where i will ultimately be assigned:

Housing in Africa:
Someone asked about housing and kitchens.  Here you go!  A teacher’s house in Ghana: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-NTa-db9EM

This is from Niger, but comparable to what your more rural PCV colleagues will live in (non-teachers): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgOQohnJzcc&feature=related

fun (and a little scary) stuff!

We took a sunset walk a ways into Manning Park toward the ski lifts

Then a long drive back to Bellevue the next day.  Gas in Omak was .20$ cheaper than Seattle–I wonder why?