Job of my Dreams

As I mentioned in the first post I would follow up with more details of what it is I am going to be doing for the next 3 years in Tanzania. To be completely honest it is not perfectly clear to me either. I have a job description but I have a feeling it will change repeatedly for better or worse. :)

So here is my actual job description as laid out by MCC

 

The overall objective of the Community Agriculturalist will be to
explore innovative agricultural practices made possible by consistent
water supplies, and teach local farmers about these practices.
Anticipated interventions include establishing a community-based crop
demonstration plot featuring location appropriate sustainable
agriculture techniques and practices; promoting improved harvest
storage technologies and soil erosion mitigation practices; and
teaching and advising local farmers.

The Community Agriculturalist will work together with a local
agricultural counterpart under the supervision of the Project
Coordinator of the Community Based Water Project. The work schedule
of the Community Agriculturalist will be quite varied, with a mix of
office and field work.

I have a feeling this may a very challenging role and I will most likely spend the first 6 to 12 months building relationship prior to starting any agriculture initiatives. At least I am somewhat aware of this before I leave so hopefully it will not be as frustrating. I know my patience will be tested many times and patience is not my strong suit.
I will give more details soon. 

Needles

So on Monday I went to the Travel Clinic to start the process of getting my shots (immunization) up-to-date. 2 hours and 4 needles later I was sent on my way. I needed a Hep A booster, Tetanus booster (includes whooping cough, so a 2-in-1 :) ), a TB skin test and the flu shot. And the scary thing is I'm not done! I have an appointment to go back the 1st week in January to get more.

My arms were not to sore until this morning, then they hurt a bit. And weirdly enough my leg didn't hurt until this evening. Oh woe is me! lol

The Beginning

Here we go! I have a few months to get prepared for the biggest journey of my life. I have dreamed for as long as I can remember that I wanted to do development work in agriculture. I must be honest, I never once imagined it would actually happen and that everything would fall into place so easily. Last August I applied with the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) on a whim. They had one posting and were immediately interested in me. Things didn't work out for that posting, but they did ask me if I would be interested in a position in Africa. I said I would consider it and after a week accepted the position. It was a fairly easy decision as every time I thought about not going I felt sick to my stomach and when I thought about going I felt good. So by listening to my body the decision was made! So to Dodoma, Tanzania I go!
Details of exactly what I will be doing to come :)