"Got everybody watching what I do, come walk in my shoes, and see the way I'm living if you really want to"

I kind of like the idea of starting every blog entry with a song lyric that describes my life in the moment...can't promise I'll keep it up but I'll try.

Since I gave you guys an update about day to day life last time, I felt like it would be fun to do an entry about what makes African Amanda different from American Amanda:

It is the happiest moment of life when I see a cucumber or tomato, which I definitely didn't like at home.
I greet everyone I see as I walk by in 1 or a mix of 3 languages.
I'm surprised when people aren't talking to me (and are actually talking to someone else).
I cannot remember why I ever needed socks, shoes that require socks, or a jacket.
Staying up until 11pm seems like a ridiculously late night, and sleeping until 7 is sleeping in.
I have to dance to get through the week...at least 2 nights of dancing to "dance out" the week.
I've danced in ways I have never danced before and (sorry) probably never will in the States.
I danced blindfolded for an hour in a dance meditation.
My capacity for white rice has tripled since I left.
My alcohol tolerance is exactly half of what it was at home, probably because I sweat all day and am always a little dehydrated.
Things like washing machines and microwaves are starting to seem weird to me even.
I communicate much more using just noises :)
I feel completely comfortable wearing my lapa skirt anywhere for any purpose, even as a yoga mat, sheet, or something to cover my bag to thwart tifs (thieves).
I laugh at anything that's funny...even (and especially) if it's something someone did that's funny. And yes I'm laughing AT them, not with them.
I no longer think silence is awkward, ever. In fact not much at all is awkward...

And...easily the worst thing about Africa: My voice is always a little bit gone, meaning I can't sing really at all...