Post PPD

Things are ok here.

I remain in Amsterdam as we try to figure out what to do with me. Seems that Liberia is an option. I guess my enthusiasm during thepre-departure course was considered too risky to placeme in Somalia. I suspect that in such an unstable and highly dangerous location, being too outspoken will be a risk that THEM does not want to take. I took the news that I would not be going to Somalia badly. Meaning I felt quite disappointed and may be even slightly put-out. It is quite difficult to change your plans at the last minute when you have been psychologically preparing for a mission, but in the end it is irrelevant where one is posted. All the work is good, and all the people are committed. So to work here or there is no matter.

I was scheduled to come home on Sat morning but late friday afternoon there was an opening projected for a placement in Liberia in the northern highlands. The operation is based in Saniquellie in the province of Nimba. The missions runs a hospital and two outreach clinics further out in the field. There are 8 (I think) expats on this mission. http://www.un.org/Depts/Cartographic/map/profile/liberia.pdf

In the mean time, I passed a wonderful (if not totally freezing) weekend in Amsterdam. What a beautiful city. It is spilling over with tourists now in spite of the weather, many of whom have to do a tour of the 'red-light district'. I quite enjoy sitting in the Leidseplein hanging out and watching the bustle of activity. I mostly eat huge cones of clunky french-fries gooped with mayo. The predeparture course was quite intensive as well as extensive...classes lasted from 0900 to 2100 hrs and with the following bar/beer socializing there was not much personal time. And not much time for outside communications. I am sitting in the THEM HQ office checking emails in between meetings and appointments.

So, all is good. Today I find out if it is Liberia or back to Canada. I will keep you informed.