is this real life?

So basically the theme of this whole trip with my little is us just looking at each other and saying "Remember how this is our life?" Basically every day we take some time to say what average-every-day-African-thing we have adopted to become "normal".  Here are just a few things that first come to my mind...
#1 Seeking Kilimanjaro Every Day
Okay so obviously I love Utah (so much Utah Pride its not real) and I love my parents house in Holladay because basically right up our street is Mt. Olympus-- basically the prettiest mountain in my opinion.  I thought that until I came to Moshi and realize that I get to see how beautiful Kili is every single day (well when the clouds aren't in the way).  That is something that I will admit I have taken for granted and have considered it "normal" but I keep having to remind myself... seeing the best mountain in Africa every single day really isn't that normal!
#2. Riding the Dola Dola (Dolla Dolla$$$)
Okay so there is this thing called a Dola Dola. Basically it is a mid-sized van that sits 12 people comfortably. Only, the catch to riding the dola dola (like literally 5 cents to get home rather than a 2 mile walk) is it ISN'T comfortable and it's actually pretty freakin' sketchy.  They stuff NO LESS then 30 people in a dola dola.. i'm not joking.  They smack the side of the bus while the last 2 people are still trying to get in to tell the driver to take off and they start hauling down the road... the door is still wide open and some guy jumps in and just makes sure no one falls out.  Everyone is basically laying and sitting on top of everyone! One time I held someones bag, but better yet one time I held someones CHILD on my lap.  Not a big deal at the time because, hey, its normal... right?
#3.  "Can I get your contact information?"
Never in my life have I had so many people ask me for my "contact information".  I mean I wish I could say it was flattering and they were being so forward because I'm quite the catch but this is absolutely not the case... turns out everyone is friends with everyone apparently and you get EVERYONES phone number, email, and FB name.  On my average-everyday-african life I would say I am walking into town and someone tries to start a conversation with me. Sometimes I'm in the mood- but when I'm not I pretend I'm fluent in spanish or don't speak a single word of English or Swahili.  However, they still always pull a phone out and INSIST I put in my contact information.  It's real cool and I at least have a lot of contacts in my TZ cell phone...
#4. The Concept of Love
Okay so this is something that I hope I never consider to be normal, but the concept of love in Africa is literally something that blows my mind.  I have talked to both boys and girls on the topic and they both seem to always be going back at each other.  So all my local friends I have made are total "muzungu chasers" aka they only like/date white girls.  I thought it was weird, but after having conversations they seem to have a good point when they say that the boys do it for love where African women only do it for the money and financial security.  Both sides say that the other sex always cheats on them. However-- the real problem I have noticed is that all these young guys are hooking up with these old-lady-white-women.  These poor old white ladies think that their 21 year old fiance really does love them but it turns out all he wants is to get to America-get your money-and dump you! how messed up is that? All I want to do is make sure that the girls aren't gold diggers and the boys aren't muzungu chasers and put my match making skills to the test-- because as much as I like being proposed to one second and then the next saying its because I'm white, I don't like it.  Sounds pretty messed up if you ask me.
#5. Not having electricity
So in our house we are actually really lucky and have electricity about 80% of the time.  It just so happens its when I let people borrow my head lamp the electricity is out for 3 days straight.  In Africa there isn't daylight savings therefore its pitch dark around 7 pm-- this puts me in a bedtime mood and I'm in bed by 10. Kinda nice, except for the fact I have to eat and brush my teeth by candle light and all my electronics (i.e. cell phone/ipod) are dead for days on days on days. It's always a hit and miss to see when our power will be on or when it will come on again.  But it's whatever I suppose and it could be much worse.

Here is just a short list I like to call "I think you get the idea why I cant believe this is my life"

-Wild dogs-ducks-cats-chickens-animals everywhere
-Riding in the bed of pick up trucks for 2 hours
-Hugging total stranger-children and becoming their BFF
-Holding hands with kids whenever we walk anywhere
-Pedestrians never have the right of way-- aka running from speeding buses comin' at ya!!!
-Hearing dog fights ALL NIGHT LONG aka the Twilight Bark
-Giving out the wanted "contact info" and getting 100+ text messages from "Benny Bus"
-Having people use the phrases "You look smart"-- aka you look nice and "You are lovely"-- too cute, right?
-Always having a pencil/pencil sharpener shortage and sharpening pencils with a piece of plastic because "its works" aka it doesn't.
-Having babies just roam the land
-Feeling like a celebrity and getting pictures taken of you always
-Having "singing time" with the little girls and trading KD songs for Swahili songs
-Talking to LITERALLY all white people you see anywhere to learn everyone's story
-Waking up every morning with a sore neck from not sleeping with a pillow -- ever
-Rice & Beans have become a delicacy
-Being able to understand enough Swahili I know when they are talking about us
-Watching kids race tires
-Having corn instead of grass is considered "lawn"
-Having ducks and cats run through the house like its not a big deal

But like I always say... "This really is my life, and I'm pretty freakin' lucky, so basically I gotta take full advantage of it."

Becoming a "Kid Person"

So I have this confession...Over the past seven weeks I have learned so much about myself and life (hand washing laundry, swahili, how to ride a dola dola, etc.) But of all these necessary and important things I've learned is about the kids. 
I will admit I feel a little guilty because I have told several people that after this trip I have learned I'm not really a "kid person"... kinda the wrong trip to realize this, right? I knew that I liked kids considering that Child Welfare is the best class I have taken in my life, after 6 years of being a swimming instructor, a summer of being a Nursery teacher and being completely 100% being obsessed with my niece and nephews.  These past week though I have completely had a shift in "not being a kid person" and I have realized that I am more of an "organized-activity-kid-person". Although the first few weeks on being in TZ I definitely had anxiety about how I was going to survive because I thought I learned I WASN'T a kid person, but over the past few weeks I realized I am better at it then I thought I was.  Kind of a sad realization I'm having with only 3 short weeks left (Only 2 more at Tuleeni).   I DO love these kids so much! However, I've just learned I'm only good at organized activities with little kids, but hey... you learn something new about yourself every day.

I have told people before, I get my baby fix from these twins, Cele and Hilda.  They are somewhere between 18 mo-2 years old and have developed slower than your average American baby.  Hilda is quite the character and "mean mugs" anyone who looks at her-- except for me! (most of the time). One thing I've learned from this little one is to not be (at least try my hardest) disgusted at naked baby bums and pee everywhere.  Since diapers are so expensive, I guess they have fallen to the bottom of the necessity list and let the babies either wear no pants or layers of bottoms so they all get soaked through.  These babies roam the land and seem happy for having little supervision (hey, its hard to put all your attention to 1 of the 78 kids here). The other night my little, Neema and I came home from grabbing some food in town.  It was pitch black and I thought I heard some whimpering from the bushes.  I walk over and see baby Hilda just playing all by herself in the sand having a good old time. I picked her up with my arms straight in front of me (no diaper...) and carried her back into the house. (Okay so the straight arm- obviously I was grossed out but I'm still learning).

Little Hilda

I have gotten to know some of these kids the past 7 weeks and learned their stories.  I have heard what they want to be when they grow up and what kind of food they want to try when they get to America. I have formed bonds and friendships with them.  There is nothing in this world I suck at more than goodbyes (biggest cry baby ever) and I am dreading the day that comes.

This past weekend has been amazing with the Tuleeni kids (thanks to some organized activities). I have felt such a new and strong bond with them-- especially after they have learned my name and I always hear them yelling "SHELLY!!!" On Saturday nights we have recently started a movie night tradition.  My dad (shout out!) donated a projector that we use to project classic movies like 101 Dalmations and Brother Bear.  This is something I know I have always taken for granted, but it was so fun to set it up like a little movie theater for the kids. Sunday is always a Funday after we have our church service-- we go to a giant field not too far from our house and watch the kids play soccer, blow bubbles, jump rope, race tires (classic Africa, right?), and play Red Rover (or as the kids say... Land Rover).  Needless to say, Red Rover always ends up getting quite intense and although most of the kids fall on their butts we always have a good time and laugh it off.

Another thing we have been doing more is study hour (Sweets & Treats) with the kids to help them study for their exams.  The big exam is 4 months away, but with a nice boarding school on the line, they need to study every single day.  We have made fun games to teach them English and even taught the #9 trick when doing times tables.  It is the most rewarding feeling when they get something right and they look up to make sure that I'm proud of them and then they get the biggest grins on their face.  That is something I have found to be priceless and makes the trip worth it. I mean it.

I love America!!! I miss it so much--- but I'm starting to freak out with only a few more weeks left. I have learned so much about myself and life on this trip I wouldn't change it for the world. 

But like I always say..."Quit your job, buy a ticket, get a tan, fall in love, and never return."

ps . some pics in case your missing my face

Me and a fellow Mormon, Mike

Celebrating the 24th of July in our Utah gear!

A KD Alum (Beta Delta Chapter) we met while shopping!!!

I've also become a dog and sprite person

I know I've heard about AIDS, have you?

Our Roomie, Neema aka Mandy

Roomie bonding night (plus Paul taxi)

Life is Beautiful

As of lately I know that all my posts have been making light of Africa, filled with inside jokes and my sarcastic humor. I do feel it appropriate to mention that this is truly an amazing experience Im having.

For starters, I'm currently in a city called Arusha; a two hour bus ride from our hometown Moshi. We came as a little getaway after recently deciding climbing Kilimanjaro is no longer an option (after the car accident my littles back is still not healing). Here in Arusha we came with our roommate Neema on a little business trip to see the schools some of the Tuleeni boys will be coming to for secondary school. This little trip has been nothing short of pure luxury for us.
Hospitality is definitely something Africans are not lacking. Let me back up and start from the first week we were here. We stayed with a woman (aunty) who literally gave up her bed for us to stay in for two nights while she made sure we always had enough to eat and drink and a fan in case we got hot. Not only did she not mind our staying, she never wanted us to leave and begged us to stay another night. Although I was truly touched I thought we had met a one of a kind woman.
We have had these experiences countless times this trip. Yesterday, yet again, we were invited to Duys-friends-brothers birthday party. Not thinking it was a huge deal we decided to go (mostly for the free food if we are being honest). This birthday party reminded me so much of being home and having a Sunday afternoon lounging with the fam in slc. They not only made us lunch, served us tea and cake, watched a movie, then had dinner before leaving. Too good too good.our friend Sheila definitely spoiled us and I fell in love with her daughter Nicole.
So that brings me to today... In Arusha. Like I said, a nice get away. A nice break from the cycle of bucket showers and cabbage salad for dinner. Besides the drama bus ride, I've been living like a queen today. Not only does our friend Davy have a toilet, but clean water, tile, cheese, and wifi!!!!

I can't believe how much I've grown to appreciate the little things (and even gone crazy for them). But I never thought a person could miss tile so much; My feet haven't been this clean since I got here!!!
It makes me so nervous to go back home and immediately fall back into the normal routine in life and not stop to appreciate the fact that we are blessed with so much and have things that seem simple but are truly a blessing such as grass, a garage, spice racks, laundry soap, doors that shut, smooth roads, dish washer, cleaning supplies, the list goes on and on. All I'm saying is, take some time today to appreciate the little things. Do it for me and know I'm missing that thing so much from the other side of the world.

But like I always say... "Stop and smell the roses."

Life Mottos: Africa Edition

It's been 5 weeks and I feel like I can officially say "I've lived in Africa". Easier said then done I'll have you know.. I've learned a lot of life lessons along the way. Here are just some of my many new mottos that you should keep in mind next time you plan on coming to Tanzania!

-Write a list of Goals/Bucket list on the airplane ride there
-Always sleep with the bug net
-Remember: Coke Light is NOT Diet Coke
-How to wash my laundry with a bar of soap... and always remembering to double rinse!!!
-To make friends with all the Muzungus you see... because you will definitely see them again, most likely at Glacier
-Nakumatt is a home away from home. An African Walmart if you will.
-You really can make soup with just a little bit of chick broth and some cut veggies
-How to kill a cockroach and spider with almost no fear
-To share a bed with your little and have the most ridiculous conversations to the point where you are waking up the whole house from crying with laughter
-Hide yo candy, hide yo granola bars and hide yo trail mix because they are snatchin' all the food up in here
-Drink Chai in the morning and savor every morsel of mondazis.
-Don't hang your clothes on the line or they will get rust all over them
-Talk to muzungus outside of Unique (clothing shop) just so you can find out that it is your LONG LOST SORORITY SISTER who graduated from USU years ago
-Don't walk to the ocean or you will step on a sea urchin!!! let the tide come to you!
-Have as many tickle wars with the kids as possible
-Teach the kids how to deny high-5s like its their job
-Eat cabbage, rice, then repeat.
-Take some fighting lessons before you decide to wrestle your little on the beach
-Take the Dola Dola (aka Dolla Dolla $$$$)
-When adding numbers in your phone... put something else significant next to their name (i.e. Glacier, Nairobi, Chrisburger, etc.)
-Have fun with the kids... but be the one to when they come to when they are tired so they fall asleep in your arms
-Guard your headlamp with your life!!!!
-Let the dogs follow you into town... somehow they always find their way back (2 mile walk every day one way)
-Wear keens... even though you look like a fool.
-Bring clothes you actually LIKE because you will go out more than you think!
-Dance with the old ladies at celebrations ("2 more minutes" turns into 20)
-Sometimes... you just gotta sneak away and have roomie bonding time under a rusty shack
-If the power is out (which is always basically)... light a candle! (NOT ON YOUR BED!)
-Print pictures of your favorite people before you go on an extended vaca so you don't need to stalk them on FB 3 days a week
-Pay a little extra money to take a nice bus
-Order beef in Africa... not chicken.
-Don't lay in bed talking about what you want to eat from America for more than an hour with your bff or nothing will ever suffice
-Keep a quote book and an African Proverbs: aka things we learn in Africa section in the journal
-ALWAYS journal Thursday/Friday/Saturday nights
-Cuddle the kids during movies... its the most action you will get in months
-Stick to the "Rules" list you hopefully made before you got here.
-Document everything
-Make sure you go with basically your favorite person and someone you know you wont get sick of
-Make sure you have Bejewled downloaded on your phone (and your friend does too so they dont always steal it)
-When your not in the mood to socialize... act like you speak Spanish!
-Live by "YOLO"
-Hang out in Tree Houses sometimes
-Act like you care about the World Cup even if you don't
-Don't litter (OBVIOUSLY) or you will get fined (aka your friend)
-Remember... even though you THINK that this is normal life, it's really not. so don't take it for granted.

But like I always say... "That's Africa, Baby!"

First Love

 Your first love never dies, that's what I always say.
In this case, it is a very important first love; one of the most important people in my life (or the three). This post is for my nephews and my niece.

July 12 was a very important day in my life. The day my first nephew was born.. Canyon Scott Campbell. I remember that day like it was yesterday... and here we are, 4 years later with two other small children, Lillie and Greyson. My senior year in high school in my Adult Roles class we had to say who the most significant person in our lives was. I said my nephew Canyon... and I still truly mean that to this day.  To say I am obsessed with being an aunt would be an understatement.  My sisters are truly my best friends and being in Africa for the summer has been the best but also the hardest thing I've done in my life. I miss both of my sisters like crazy, but also their children.  I've always tried to be a children kind of person (I mean, I am working with orphans after all), and hey-- don't get me wrong... kids are adorable, but there is nothing else like your niece and nephews love.
The kids I work with every day at Tuleeni Orphanage are some of the most sweet, pure, and cute children I have ever met. As twisted as it sounds, it makes me miss my bratty, stubborn, and even partially evil kids that I claim as my own  back in America


I guess what I'm trying to say is... Melissa and Krista... this one is for you! Thanks for being my best friends and bringing the most important people into my life.  Lets bring some more when I get home!

love you three to pieces. miss you like crazy.

But like I always say... "you're first love really never dies"

Nairobi & Mombasa

So much has happened the past week I dont even know where to begin...
I guess I'll start by saying that the first time I came to Africa in 2007 we went to Kenya. For some reason, I feel like my loyalty is with Kenya, even though TZ has my heart.
Nairobi is basically the NY of East Africa you could say.  It is really industrialized and modern compared to other places in Africa.  Everyone there speaks English basically and it isn't too hard to get around (minus almost getting hit when crossing the round about). We stayed at the YMCA and I got my own bed for the first time in a month! WOO!

Duy has a lot of friends in Kenya so we had a blast getting to know them and just hanging out and relaxing.  For the first time in a month we felt like we actually had friends! and we felt like we knew them forever and basically goofed off for six days straight.

On Sunday night we took an overnight bus to Mombasa. We made fun of Duy the whole time because he was so excited about the air conditioning and how nice our bus was. Needless to say, lesson learned because Karma definitely got us on the way home (one could call it tokyo drift in a giant bus. going about 60 MGH around corners and down hills. I literally prayed the whole time we wouldnt get in another car accident).

Mombasa was AMAZING! probably the highlight of the trip.  On Monday morning I got some bad news about my best friends little sister passing away so I was pretty  bummed out, but I still tried to make the most of it.  We spent the day on the white sand beach with the most warm and clear blue water! We did some swimming, napping, caught some rays, and oh-- rode a camel obviously.  You might not THINK that a camel sounds that cool, but if you stand by a camel you forget how freakin huge they are! it was like riding a dinosaur/some scary animal on like Avatar or Star Wars. Just saying.

So many adventures, the best way to put it would be to just mention the highlights:
-Crying in the back of the taxi confessing my best friendship for my little
-Meeting a crazy german and spaniard and making bff with them
-Getting thrown in the pool with my clothes on
-Teaching swimming lessons
-Going to the Elephant Orphanage
-Eating Pizza always just to eat CHEESE
-Dancing with my little and strangers-- aka swing/salsa dancing
-Getting my African bracelet
-Laying on the grass watching the full moon and clouds
-Swimming in the ocean to see the most beautiful sunset on both sides
-Celebrating "Free Hugs" in Nairobi
-My little sleep-yelling and fighting me... TWICE
-Wrestling matches on the beach
-Hide & Seek with all the Mombasa Crew
-Playing Wii sports and winning every time
-Riding a camel
-Planning out the rest of my life
-Catching some rays
-Getting kicked off the presidents red carpet
-Learning African Proverbs
-Cook offs between little and Marv

It was such a good vacation and I had so much fun! Shout out to Siri, Olly, and Martin aka Marv! The people we met were amazing and some people I know we will be friends forever.
Good times in Kenya, back to home in Tanzania

But like I always say... "Sometimes in life you gotta stop and look and see what you've accomplished so far and then make changes from there" -Marvin Okaka

God Bless America

In honor of the 4th of July (my favorite Holiday) I would like to list thing/reasons why I miss America

1. Traffic Laws

2. Cross Walks

3. The English Language

4. People who wear deodorant

5. Consistent Electricity

6. Not having to sleep under a bug net!

7. Food that isn't Rice & Cabbage

8. DIET COKE

9. Convenience of life (aka faster internet and a car and whatnot)

10. Going to church!!!

11. Having a clean and organized living space

12. I wish I packed clothes that I actually like...

13. A pillow and comforter (I sleep with a plane neck pillow and a donated fleece blanket)

14. My own bed (even though sharing with my little is quite romantic)

15. A WARM SHOWER

16. Speed Limits

17. My Family!

18. The Gang!

19. All my Kappa Deltas!

20. My Vespa

21. Classic summer things (drive ins, bees games, hiking, sleeping on the tramp, game nights, etc)

22. Alone time (maybe 5 minutes of every day would be nice)

23. Washer and Dryer
24. Napkins
25. CHEESE
26. No bug bites

But like I always say... "you live and you learn and you get over it"