Another Update!

Pat's hut may or may not have a roach problem.  He came home the other day to find a big one on his floor and then later the same day he had to kill another.  

Pat has been recruited to plan events over there.  The trainees put him in charge so he is planning a soccer game between health volunteers and business volunteers, another soccer game between PC Staff and volunteers, a movie night, Thanksgiving and Halloween parties, and a dance to present at swear in. His psychology degree is going to good use! I hope the group dance will be video recorded and put on youtube as previous years' performances have been!  (I'll keep you all updated on that)

The last couple of nights, the PCTs have gone out to the bar for bonding and a good time.  That has been a blast.  Lots of dancing ensued!  On Friday they spent a good amount of time learning about mosquito nets and planting trees.  They actually worked with manure... glad I wasn't there haha.  Another day, they had presentations on women's empowerment groups in BF.  While the topic itself is interesting, the presentation was not quite as intriguing.  On Friday night they had a movie night at the "school" where their training occurs.  At the school there is one room with a projector and a couple of outlets.  During the day, the PCTs take turns charging their various electronics. However, the entire building is open air, no doors, no windows, no A/C, no running water... it is just one with the outside. Pat fell asleep on the floor during the movie.  

Speaking of sleeping, this experience is EXHAUSTING.  Pat says its a different type of exhaustion... the kind that kinda just knocks you out at night.  More than just a physical condition.  He feels that he is being stretched and is happy that he is!  He is acclimating well.  

Thus far, they have lost 4 of the PCTs.  Four individuals decided PCBF was not for them and flew back home abandoning the project at hand.  This really lowers morale among the group.  When someone leaves it makes everyone reevaluate their own decision to stay. It seems "so easy" to just do what others have done and to give up when the going gets tough...but Pat will definitely not be one of those people.  He is strong, determined, and most of all, he is passionate.  He wants to make a difference and help others, so that is precisely what he will do.