Things I've Learned

The following are a few things I've learned from my time here in South Africa:

- People you don't know might just come up and hug you. Don't be afraid. They're just being friendly.
- If you overhear someone talking about a robot, they're refering to a stoplight, not an actual robot.
- Showering during the day when it's 70 degrees outside is a much better idea than showering at night when it's 30 degrees outside (and inside).
- When working with babies every day, Shout stain remover is absolutely necessary.
- 100 Rand is equal to about 13 U.S. dollars, so take a deep breath whenever you hear your grand total at the cash register. It's actually much less than what it sounds.
- When stopping on the side of the road to buy fruit, be careful not to let black vendors rip you off. Sometimes with white customers, they increase their prices.
- Unlike in most U.S. malls, there are some really nice restaurants in the mall in Rustenburg.
- You can't really count on electricity. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't.
- Therefore, keep a flashlight where you can find it if you're going to be groping around in the dark.
- Space heaters and hot showers are gifts from God. Thank Him for them daily.
- Traffic laws are much more optional and much less enforced here.
- Before entering a shack to pray with someone, turn off your cell phone.
- When a teenage boy tries to teach you Afrikaans, do not repeat anything he says without first verifying with a female. You will be glad you did.
- Holding babies and chasing kids around all day is a great workout, and as an added bonus, you'll sleep really well at night.
- Most African kids are fascinated by Caucasian hair and will stick their fingers in it when given the chance.
- Trampolines and fingernail polish do not mix.