Top 10 Things I've Learned in Zambia....and then some

10. Being Fat is a good thing (and I'm working on that ;)
9. Its okay to be dirty - bathing is optional
8. Never show anything above your knees. Ever. However going topless is okay
7. Living in a mud hut will give you new appreciation for nature and all god's creatures
6. Living with few material items is very freeing...however having a cell phone is priceless
5. Having a simple conversation in Nyanja can cause enough frustration to ruin your entire day.
4.When you absolutely believe you can't do something or can't handle it, you can. Really there's no other option
3. Going to the Peace Corp Provincial House magically transports you back to America.
2. Time doesn't matter. No one keeps it here.
1. Our relationships in life will be the most important things we have. Our relationships with family, friends, lovers, co-workers and even strangers young and old. Nothing matters more than that, so take care of them...cherish them, even if they last for a moment.

And some more fun facts:

- Not having a mirror increases your self-esteem. No one cares what you look like here.
- When someone says no, they probably mean yes.
- Hitchhiking is a great way to network.
- Never believe people actually understand what you are saying. Avoid yes and no questions.
- Being constantly watched and stared at is normal.
- Candles are a necessity - no longer just for setting the mood.
- Being poor isn't the problem, being uneducated is.
- Zambians can drink all white people under the table.
- Everyone knows how to dance - everyone.
- Everyone wants to go to America.
- Meflaquin makes you stupid. (Our anti-malaria prophalaxis)
- Having male visitors in your house will have everyone talking
- PC is an emotional rollercoaster 24/7
- You are considered rude if you don't greet everyone.

And the most important thing I've learned...
NEVER go anywhere without water and a roll of toilet paper. They are essential to your survival in Africa.