SuriTam

Still Alive

2012-03-23T19:19:00.000-03:00

I am very happy to be home in America. When I first got back I really didn't think I would be able to handle the cold weather, but surprisingly this winter was not as cold as winters past. We have sent our visa request to the Suriname embassy and they say it will take at least 2 months to process. We are patiently waiting though hoping that everything works out well, because believe it or not I miss Sranan (Suriname). I actually had a taste of Suriname the other day, because we brought home the pinda (peanut) sauce and Chevy's Gekruide Ketjap (Spicy Ketchup). I might make it sometime soon, because out of everything that I miss it is the food that stands out, of course after some people that I miss dearly. I thought I should post since I haven't posted since I got here to America. The time has really gone by fast, but it will be bittersweet to go back to Suriname.

Missing Suri....

Going Home 2

2011-12-12T01:04:00.001-03:00

I figure it is 1:00 in the morning I am not finished packing, to end my night I might as well give a little update on my happenings. Tuesday, December 13th we are leaving to AMERICA! Honestly I have mixed feelings. For one by the time I get to Huntsville (where I reside) it will be the middle of winter. Coming from a mile of the equator to the middle is winter wasn't quite the welcome home party I expected. I wonder what will happen to the church members while we are gone. Will they stay consistent? On the other hand I will be glad to go to Wal-mart at midnight just because I can. I can't wait to go shopping and find dirt cheap bargains for good quality things. The food...you already know how I feel about that. If not read this for a reminder. Before food and shopping of course there is my family that I can't wait to see. I'm getting really tired so I'll have to stop here. Travel is fun. My Suriname journey isn't over just yet, though. I'll be back!

Anxiously awaiting America...

Snack of the Day

2011-11-28T23:31:00.000-03:00

I know I post a lot about food. Or maybe not? Food helps me to cope sometimes. I was just telling my husband the other day that I thank God for fast foods. I was reminiscing of Chik-fil-A and Buffalo Wild Wings. I thought of all the condiments used to make your food taste so good. Then I had to snap out of it. This was just my little rant on American food. Moving on to the SuriSnack.

The snack of the day was actually given to me by a friend. To be honest the bag reminds me of my childhood and would not have attracted me in the stores. Though it was a gift I wasn't even gonna eat it until one day when I was REALLY hungry. The quickest thing to satisfy my hunger, for the time being until I cooked, was a bag of krie-kra. It kind of reminds me of cocoa puffs with less cocoa and more puff. Actually the cocoa is more like a mocha than a chocolate (false advertisement on the bag). After eating this little snack I realized that I have a new treat to enjoy. It is good for children and adults because it is not too sweet. I like that. If you come to Suriname you won't regret buying this little snack.

This is one of the many products that Fernandes offers

Taking a good look..."Wow this is better than I thought"

Awww...last one :(

Snacking the Suri way...

Do you have a favorite snack? Have you ever tasted Krie-Kra? Let me know!

Wolly's

2011-11-22T08:38:00.001-03:00

I like to eat good food. Most people do. Amongst the diversity of foods in Suriname there is a good ole burger joint. It is like none other. There is a Burger King and McDonald's here, but Wolly's is unique. I think what sets their burgers apart from the others is the juiciness. I like to taste the ketchup and mayo in my sandwich. You know how you open the burger to check if there is even any condiments within. With a Wollyburger that is not the case. When you see the picture of my burger below you will know what I am talking about.

Zorg en Hoop outlet

This is the current menu. They do have their menu is online but it hasn't been updated since the increase in prices nationwide. Just add 1 or 2 SRD's to the price for accuracy.

This is my order of a Wolly Kip (chicken) burger.

There are 3 Wolly's that I know of: 1) town, 2)Zorg en Hoop, 3)Leijsweg You can check out their website for hours of operation and any other info you might have. Let me know if have visited Wolly's what your experience was like.

Craving a Wollyburger...

Foto Friday

2011-10-28T18:10:00.000-03:00

Glorious Earlier this year I went on a fishing trip. (Mentioned it in a post.) I just glanced through the pictures again and thought I should share this one. This is at the point where the Suriname river meets the Atlantic ocean.

A Workshop for Peace

2011-10-25T10:18:00.002-03:00

If you want to watch the documentary I mentioned yesterday here is a link: A Workshop for Peace Watch the Documentary Film Free Online SnagFilms##. I found it to be very informative. I like the title when you watch the movie you will better understand why.

Enjoy!

Happy United Nations Day!

2011-10-24T22:48:00.003-03:00

Today is United Nations Day. It is the day that commemorates the Charter of the United Nations. In light of this we went to the TBL cinemas to watch the documentary "A Workshop for Peace" tonight. The event was hosted by the United Nations in Suriname. Admission was free and open to the public. I thought that many of the Surinamese would take the opportunity to check out a movie for free, but the main viewers were mainly Americans from different organizations.
The documentary shows the story of how the world's greatest architects representing many of the original member nations came together and created an architectural symbol for global Peace. It was very interesting to see the different designs that were presented in the process of finding the design for the building we have today. I've been to New York City several times, but never really went to see the building. Next time I am in New York City I will definitely have to stop by and take a glance of the structure in person.

I brought my camera last night to take pictures, but when I turned it on--battery exhausted. I didn't see the need to bring my video camera. I did start a YouTube channel tonight for SuriTam so I will be bringing my video camera everywhere. Below is a pamphlet they passed out about the United Nations in Suriname. I am glad to have this information, because I think I will inquire on a job with the UN. Feel free to share this information with anyone you know. Maybe you might want to work with the UN in Suriname...You never know!

Hoping for World Peace...

Foto Friday

2011-10-07T11:30:00.001-03:00

Harmless? Yes. This lizard is just as docile as the small ones you find in the patios of Miami. Of course even the most docile creature when threatened or harassed will have to use self-defense. When I first saw it I thought it was harmful, but later I learned that it would only hurt a fly.

Little Known Fact

2011-09-28T11:30:00.000-03:00

Gopher Snake This snake would probably be killed because it seems harmful, yet it is a non-poisonous snake. It helps reduce the amount of rodents that fester around. Click here to learn more about snakes

If you were going for a walk in the bushes one day, with a machete in hand (for protection) and you encounter a snake in your path, what would you do?... Kill it right!?! With what? The machete in your hand. Well, recently I learned that is the wrong thing to do if you are in the wrong position, especially if it is poisonous. The first half with the head has a high possibility of jerking forward and biting you. If it is poisonous the venom will still release. The best thing to do is let the snake go, because it is more scared of you than you are of it (no matter how scared you may be). If it is poisonous you can crush the head with the handle of the machete and break its back bone so it doesn't try to come forward to you. Cut it when it seems to be dead (just to make sure). And yes snakes have bones. Only try to kill it if you are in a life-threatening situation. It could be more dangerous for you to kill it than to just let it go on its way.

I did some research before I shared this information. According to MedlinePlus, "Be careful with the head...a snake can actually bite for up to an hour after it's dead (from a reflex)." I really don't want to ever have to test this fact for myself. I do write this for those traveling to the interior of Suriname or just your backyard to let you know how to handle a snake if there is a life-threatening situation that may cause you to kill it.

Staying away from snakes...

Drink of the Day

2011-09-27T16:32:00.000-03:00

Among the variety of fruit drinks that are in Suriname, my favorite is Markoesa (Passion Fruit). When I eat the fruit fresh there is a burst of tangy sweet sourness that delights my taste buds. The drink is not as sour, so most people rather the drink. Below is a picture of me enjoying the delightful drink.

Drink: Markoesa
Brand: Coropina
Produced in: Suriname

Suriname Gospel

2011-09-22T16:36:00.001-03:00

This song is one of my favorite songs. I don't know if it is because it was one of the first songs I learned here or if it's just the rhythm. The literal translation of the song is:

God is a good God. Yes He is. (twice) He lifts me up, He turns me around, and places my feet on high ground.

Lesplansie

2011-09-21T21:56:00.003-03:00

Last week around this time I went to the interior of Suriname. As stated in a previous post the organization I work with, NAPS, has built a church in the village Lesplansie where we are committed to developing. From Lesplansie we will branch out to other villages and lend a helping hand where needed. Everything is pretty much done with the church except the windows that need to be put in, a toilet needs to be dug out, and the church needs a good paint job. I think we will do some electrical work, but I don't know much about the details. I was there to cook. While the men were doing the digging I was in the kitchen preparing some good meals. The facilities weren't the best, but you use what you have.

The Kitchen

The Stove

The kitchen got a little smoky at times, but I step out and get some fresh air so that I can breathe. The villagers work in this kitchen 24/7 and don't seem to be affected by the smoke that flares up from the firewood. The stove was obviously not conventional, but I learned the way to put the fire on high is to add a lot of firewood and fan really good. The way to turn down the fire is to pull out the firewood where just the embers are in the middle and the ends are not touching each other anymore. Life in the interior is simple, sometimes too simple. Over time hopefully through technology and education there will be advancements for the villages.

Enjoying the simple life...

She Is Missed

2011-09-13T23:13:00.000-03:00

(source)

BANG!...and a car speeding away was the sound that I woke up to last Wednesday morning at 5:30. Jumping out of bed to find out what happened I saw Mrs. Broija (a dog) limping across the street. All the dogs in the neighborhood started to cry and howl for this crime that a negligent driver had committed. I watched her struggle to keep her head up as she sat on the side of the road. The neighbors came out to see what all the commotion was about. I tried to go back to sleep, but couldn't I periodically looked out the window to see if she was okay. The last look was her final breath. She died. I never even pet her (because she was a stray) but I felt so sad inside to know that a dog who always sat on my porch was now dead. I felt that it was appropriate to write about it because her 'husband', Broija, who lives next door hasn't been the same since she left. The house I live in used to be Broija's. When his owners moved away there was a sense of loss. Now about 2-3 years later his wife dies I want the world to know that Broija is hurting too. Dogs do mourn and we should be considerate of there feelings. As for Mrs. Broija, we had a mini-funeral in the backyard. We dug a deep hole and laid her there.

Missing Mrs. Broija...

Sick Car

2011-09-07T14:44:00.001-03:00

The entrance to the Academisch Ziekenhuis

Last Thursday the skies were blue, the sun was hot, and a baby was on the way. Of course as a pastoral couple my husband and I had to visit our church member that was due to deliver at any moment. She was in Academisch Ziekenhuis. We arrived at 4:00 p.m. There were practically no cars outside. We figured it was because of the holiday. The woman at the gate wouldn't let us go through. She told us to come back at 5:00 p.m. We found out the hard way that visiting hours are daily from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 5:00-6:00 p.m. If you want to visit someone out of these hours you will not be permitted to do so unless you buy a pass for 11 SRDs that allows you to visit outside of the visiting hours for only one hour. We'll come back!

When we came back it was raining so hard. The parking lots were all more than full. We got wet, but it didn't matter. The visit was really nice. We cracked some jokes, listened for any concerns, prayed, and were on our way. Upon reaching the car we noticed that the headlights were left on. (Uh-oh!) Tried to start the car and the battery was...dead. Realizing our jumper cables were not in the car we called a colleague.

After making the call I realized that there was a man in the car next to us. Of course I had to muster up some dutch, but I definitely mixed it with some sranantongo. I said, "Mi battri dede! Kunt u help me? Yu habi jumper cables?" He said, "mi no habi!" Finally, someone pulled over to help us and the car started. We were on our way. The car is still sick though. It is in need of a new battery. Hope things get better. It's ironic that the car got sick in front of the hospital though!

Caring the car to wellness...

Recently...

2011-08-18T22:27:00.000-04:00

This past month I had visitors. With visitors means a particular project that we are tending to. This time it was highly active evangelism to the Haitian community. We had 3 of our Creole speaking friends come to help. There were nightly meetings that shared truths about the bible. My favorite part of the program was the grand finale. We had a group come from French Guiana that performed a beautiful concert. Not only was the concert well put together, but the songs were so beautiful. The following day we had a day of sports. It was really fun. The Haitian youth came out to enjoy the activities. My husband barbecued some chicken. The food was so good. I really enjoyed myself. Right now again I am in recoup mode.

My whole body was literally hurting me when I woke up on Monday morning. All lot of different things have happened that I will try to share. My experience in Suriname is very unique. Sharing the unraveling experiences as I recoup for the next big event.

Making memories....

Foto Friday

2011-07-08T16:50:00.001-04:00

Saramacca Connect The newest bridge in Suriname is only 2 minutes walking distance from me. As of June 27th there is more traffic but now the people living only 50 minutes or so from town won't have to take the extra hours to get there. Further Reading

4th of July

2011-07-05T15:03:00.000-04:00

Yesterday. Heard no fireworks. Ate no barbecue chicken. Swam in no pool. BUT all is not lost. On Sunday, July 3rd, my neighbor decided to barbecue in lieu of emancipation day here in Suriname since it was still the same weekend. We just got an invitation to a 4th of July celebration that will take place next Sunday, July 10th for all American citizens residing in Suriname. That is going to be pretty cool.

The 4th of July has a new meaning to me now. July 4, 2009 was my last day as a single woman. Today, is my wedding anniversary and I am just glad to be married to such a great man. We have been married for two years now and this evening we will celebrate. Marriage is a give and take. Having a discussion about marriage my cousin said,"marriage is a collision of two worlds." Some may not agree, but this is the truth. I agree with her, but have an amendment: "marriage is a holy collision of two worlds"; the fact that God instituted marriage, 85% of weddings are in a church or synagogue, and a majority of those who get married at the Justice of the Peace call a chaplain to bless them, all support this.

I have taken a serious vow and will continue to be faithful to it. We will go to Pizza Hut, which is fine dining here. You'll see pictures on Friday or maybe tomorrow. I'll keep you updated as I am working on some videos to show you more of what Suriname is like, from a more captivating aspect.

Enjoying my anniversary...

Foto Friday

2011-07-01T21:36:00.000-04:00

Keti Koti Literally meaning "cut chain" is being observed today, July 1, in Suriname. It is emancipation day led out by the slaves. Many people were representing in traditional outfits like this little girl above.

Sunday Stroll

2011-06-27T18:53:00.001-04:00

Converse Store at the Hermitage mall

Yesterday, I went to the mall with my hubby after a successful outing with our church members. We were going to go to Fernandes, to get a little snack, but opted to just get the snack at the mall. Before we arrived honestly I thought the mall might not be open, because so many other places were closed. Much to my pleasant surprise the mall was open. Yay!! First place? Food court. The food court isn't as extensive, but I did find a good snack. We both ordered a chicken sate (pronounced sah-tay) with a side of fries. I got some pinda sauce with mine. Pinda is dutch for peanuts. In a later post I hope to give you a recipe for this delicious pinda sauce.

After eating of course we just walked around like the rest of the mall goers. I looked into stores with wishful eyes and empty pockets. Oh how I wish I was rich sometimes. (Only sometimes because mo' money, mo' problems.) Anyhow though I knew I wasn't going to buy anything I still went into several stores, shoe stores to be specific. I love shoes. Until my husband was tired but by then we were practically at the end of the mall. All that was left was the huge Converse store that stood before us. Of course he was rejuvenated as we entered. I felt like I was in America again. There were shoes (of course), clothes, and a DJ. Across the Converse store is one of the two McDonald's in Suriname. I wanted a sundae, but since I had one Saturday night I figured a few less calories wouldn't hurt.

We left there around 8:45pm and it looked like the night was just getting started. The stores were closing, yet the parking lot was throbbing with cars. Then it was brought to my attention that everyone is going to the theatres which is adjacent to the mall. Going to the mall always tires me, but I stayed up for the 45 minute drive home. The Hermitage mall is a definite place to visit if you come to Suriname.

Now wanting a sundae...

Foto Friday

2011-06-24T19:36:00.000-04:00

Papakye This green parrot is talented. At times he can sound like a child crying then go to the opposite, a woman laughing, it is really fun to watch these birds and listen to them. In Suriname they call these birds pa-pa-kye.

Foto Friday

2011-06-17T15:25:00.000-04:00

La Gabrielle This is the ferry that took us from Albina, Suriname to St. Laurent, French Guiana. Even cars get a lift.

Suriname Visa

2011-06-17T15:22:00.000-04:00

By the end of 2010 the National Democratic Party (NDP) of Suriname was beginning their reign. President Bouterse brought a new government to Suriname where a lot of things changed. In particular the rules for foreigners became strict. As an America passport holder I am allowed 90 days on a Tourist visa. Anyone coming to Suriname must come with a round-trip ticket. That wasn't an option for my husband and me.

We didn't and still don't know exactly when we are leaving. We came back in October 2010, and made it clear we would be here for at least a year. After working in the interior with the bush negroes and especially our Haitian brethren we have decided to prolong our stay a couple of months. Seeing that we came on a one way ticket at the airport they gave us a stay for 30 days. That is they stamped our passport with a stay for 30 days, because we applied for our Suriname visa from America (which is valid for 5 years multiple entries). Each entry can be for up to 90 days if you have proof that you will be leaving.

For us we don't have proof that we are leaving anytime soon. Solution? French Guiana! Every 30 days when our stay is up we head on over to Suriname's neighboring country French Guiana. We spend the night at La Tentiaire (pronounced la-tuhn-see-air). It is like a mini vacation from the hustle and bustle of Paramaribo. When you cross the river it is like you are in Europe, technically you are. We wish we didn't have to do this, but this is the only solution.

Last month we went to the States. We bought our ticket in February. When we went to the police station to show our itinerary they finally granted us a 90 day stay until we left for America. Now that we are back we have to keep running for the border until we can get that ticket home. The road is long, but the light at the end of the tunnel is worth it ;-)

Loving the border...

Back in Town!

2011-05-29T22:40:00.000-04:00

It has been approximately 13 days since I have been back in Suriname. These nearly two weeks have been very full. I came back on the same flight as my friends from NAPS with whom I am currently doing more extensive work in the interior. When we got in we stayed in town for about two days then it was straight to the bush. I was really tired already from the "vacation" which wasn't as relaxing as I expected.

While in America believe it or not I didn't do half of the things that I thought I would do. I actually did go to the following restaurants: Chinese food (the broccoli was banging), Subway, Taco Bell, IHOP, and Chipotle. I really enjoyed the visit with friends and family. It was really nice to see all the people that I got to see. Unfortunately I didn't get to see everyone that I wanted to see, but when we get back permanently we will get a chance to catch up.

It has been 30 days since my last post so I couldn't let another day go on without posting. I will be working in the interior until mid June, but today I am in town, because the doctors are coming in tomorrow. My husband and I are going to pick them up from the airport and bring them back to the interior to continue the medical work. I will probably blog another post in about a month. Feel free to check back in a month. Don't forget about me as I haven't forgotten about you! The work is progressing, but we need your prayers.

Back to the bush...

Foto Friday

2011-04-29T18:50:00.000-03:00

School bus? Yes. Everyday this bus comes in the morning to pick up the children and drop them off in the afternoon. I look at it and wonder if this is the same bus that Rosa Parks rode back in the day.

Going Home

2011-04-27T10:34:00.004-03:00

In 4 days I will be in America. Yay!!! : D This blog is not over, neither will the posts diminish for the next 2 weeks (hopefully), because this is only a visit. I am going to visit my friends and family even though honestly I gave gotten used-to Suriname. Of course there are people that I miss, like my Dad and sister (not my mom because she is here visiting), but I am glad to get a chance to see their faces. I was thinking about the first thing I wanted to eat...mmm....Subway! I want to get a turkey sandwich wrap with some chipotle sauce, baby spinach, olives, onions, ranch dressing, swiss cheese, and have it toasted! Whooo...hooo! That is going to be so good. That is just one of the many restaurants on my list. Seeing that I am on a strict budget I may not get to go to all here on my list: Chinese restaurant [only for broccoli and tofu in garlic sauce w/ fried rice], Subway, Taco bell, Chipotle, Chik-fil-A, Coconutz Fusion, Papa Gyros (great greek food), Casa Blanca, any Indian restaurant, Cheesecake factory....can't think of anymore, but please if you have any ideas I'm willing to hear.

Apart from the food I am really looking forward to shopping at the thrift store. I just love a good bargain for great quality stuff. Can't wait to go to Walmart and Target! Actually take a hot shower. My house only has cold water. You know there are usually two knobs on every sink...well not everywhere do you have the luxury of two knobs here. Most times it is one knob for the cold. If you have a tank though that faces the sun during the day, you will have the privilege of feeling nice warm water on your skin. The cold water is actually good for you though. Some say it will make you sick, but I think I have gained a strengthened immune system seeing that I haven't gotten sick. I hope too many things haven't changed since I've been gone, but I guess I'll find out when I get there.

America here I come...