Samihafa hoditry fo.

Sometimes I hate the color white. I can never get my white clothes clean, no matter how much I scrub. I am tired of eating so much rice. I am tired of talking about rice--what's going on on the farm, how much it costs. And I am tired of being so obviously white surrounded by so many non-white Malagasy faces.

People often ask if we have the same things in the U.S. as in Madagascar. Do people steal? Do people fight? Yes, bad things happen in the developed world too. One of my friends always responds with "Olo. Samihafa hoditry fo." She is saying that I am still a "Person. Just different skin." It's so nice to have someone realize this.

Other events in my life:

4AM karate has entered my exercise routine. Yes, I am questioning my sanity. Especially when I sweat so much my feet are slipping and the sun hasn't even risen yet.

Going to plant something in my backyard with a neighbor. I agreed but I don't actually know what we're planting. I didn't recognize the name but agreed (one of my bad habits) and let it go too long to ask. Mystery plant will be arriving soon.

Did not get hit by the cyclone, I apologize for those of you who were worried.

Love you all.

Leslie