 Erika Kraus - Erika | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 23rd August 2008 Nancy | - From: Homecoming very nice. I hope you don't have to stop blogging now that you are back in the US. |
| 23rd August 2008 Uncle Jim | Welcome Home - From: Homecoming In a way I'm sorry to have you return, as we will miss your wonderful blogs. Please keep in touch. Best of luck with your job search, I hope you find something equally fulfilling. Carpe diem! (know you will, it's your nature) Love - Unc Jim & Aunt Bette |
| 22nd August 2008 Josh | I'll oblige ... - From: Homecoming Hey, to help overcome some of the things that you miss in Benin I'd wanted to let you know that I can certainly take a nap at the drop of a hat. So, maybe I'll head out to the Kraus homestead and take a siesta on the couch. Oh and I can also get offended every once in awhile if that helps too. Let me know :) It's good to have you back in the neighborhood that is NE Kansas. I was a little curious to know what Mathurin thought of the Kansas landscape. Did he see much prairie land or mostly the somewhat hilly area here around where we live? I guess you don't have to go very far to see it starting to open up ... even toward Melvern is opens up more. I thought I saw in a couple pictures some flat land there in Benin area. So, was this similar for him in some ways? Josh |
| 10th July 2008 Dan | - From: More Pictures Hey, always good to hear and read the occasional updates from you! Where are you off to next? |
| 18th June 2008 Nancy | - From: More Pictures I'm going to miss your pictures!! |
| 17th June 2008 c.green | quelles jolies photos - From: More Pictures have so enjoyed this travelblog during your time in Benin - merci! vraiment tu es une inspiration. bon retour! Christina |
| 8th April 2008 Nancy | - From: International Women's Day Tell Miminon that I think her orange dress looks really pretty on her. |
| 1st February 2008 Melinda Beach | Getting into your blog a bit late... - From: Someday Hello!! I received the link to your blog today and am so excited for all that you are doing! I have only made it part way through your postings but I am looking forward to getting to hear more about Africa. I pray that God will bless you and the people you meet during your time in Africa!! |
| 29th January 2008 Dad Kraus | Truly Benninese - From: For the Love of the Game Hi Erika, Good luck with the fund raising, we donated your christmas present!! You are truly becoming soooo Benninese I can hardly tell wich one is you in the pictures!! Love you much, Dad. |
| 29th January 2008 nancy | - From: A Time for Feasting Chicken head? I don't think i could do it. So...how many outfits do you have? I like the colors in the one you had made for the party. It reminds me a lot of peacocks. |
| 31st December 2007 Dad Kraus | You have made a difference! - From: A Caterpillar Named Laisa See Erika, you have made a difference!! How ever small, we can only hope the other villages near by will catch the spirit and modernize. Great job. Dad. |
| 31st December 2007 Dad Kraus | COLD Harmattan winds? - From: Hot Drinks at Nap Time The last time I was in Benin and experienced the cold Harmattan winds we were still able to swim in the ocean without shivering or having purple lips! I will send you some pictures of cold!! The most snow we have had in a very long time for December in the state of Kansas!!!Dad. |
| 21st December 2007 Greta | Awesome! - From: A Caterpillar Named Laisa Thats great Erika! I'm glad the trash pick up is starting to catch on! It sounds like you guys are really doing a lot of good for your town. You might even make a very 'progressive' town its citizens can be proud of! Yea to Mathurin for planting trees and shrubs in his school yard! Go Athieme!!! |
| 11th December 2007 Nancy | - From: Soothsayer Chocolate Today is blah day. Gray skies. Appreciate your non-gray winter sky. Rain. Sleet. Ice. Gross. Sent ya a letter today. Hope you get it by Christmas. |
| 11th December 2007 Aunt Donna | Falling Leaves vrs. Ice Storm - From: Soothsayer Chocolate We miss you!! Bob just ordered the MEAT for Christmas at Grandma's. A Midwest Ice/Winter Storm is settling in for the night/days???. Glad we have a small generator!!!! Love, Aunt Donna |
| 26th September 2007 Nancy | - From: The Mono River were you able to save the tree, or did it fall in? |
| 26th September 2007 Greta | Dork! - From: The Mono River You are a dork!!! Go live with the sisters! What are you doing staying in that house??? Now that you didn't get any sleep last night, you'll be too tired to tie yourself to you rafters and avoid the flood water. If it rises too high, will the piroque come pick you up inside the house? |
| 22nd September 2007 Nancy | - From: Bike Ride I think there is the same Flamboyant tree in Jamaica. In fact, it was blooming when i was there last (just in august). I asked Damon what it was called; he didn't know....not quite the help I wanted:). haha P.S. I don't think you are supposed to mention the skinny dipping part on the internet. ;) |
| 22nd September 2007 Dad Kraus | OH-BOY - M&M'S - From: Kate and Tina I'm not so sure why the picture of the M&M's are there, except that the only way you have them is when someone sends them to you, and usually they are a melted glump when they get to you, being as how you are next to the equator and all. One would thnik that flying at an altitude of 1500 feet or more the M&M's would be in better shape when they get to you, but I would suppose the slow local traffic is where they collect the heat. I only remember you licking the choclate off of every wrapper every time you ate chocolate from the stuff we brought on our visit. |
| 21st September 2007 Amy Catbagan | Tina the nose picker - From: Kate and Tina Is Tina picking her nose in that last one?! It wouldn't surprise me as we all know what a nose picker she is :-) |
| 14th September 2007 Dad Kraus | Trash Service - No Kidding!!?? - From: More Pictures I have visited Athieme, Benin. I can see why you are excited about a tractor that hauls trash. It is only the second tractor I have seen during and since my visit! I hope the service expands at a rapid rate. Athieme would be sooo much prettier with a little cleaning up! It is such a wonderful farming community, with lots of folks with lots of big smiles. By the way where are the HIPPOPOTAMUSES, I would suppose a close up would be regretable!! |
| 28th August 2007 Daphne McConnell | where are the hippos? - From: More Pictures Where are these hippopotami? musses? see, I can't spell either, that you speak of? I reckon you don't get too close to a hippo, do you? |
| 28th August 2007 Daphne McConnell | beautiful pictures! - From: More Pictures Erika: Beautiful pictures! I have so enjoyed your journals and pictures. Hard to believe you've been there two years already! Hope all is well and I'll be happy to write you any wonga-woman recommendations you need when you decide what to do when you return home! When do you get back? I know you signed on for an additional 6 months. If you were coming back before January, you could come replace me while I'm on sabbatical! DM |
| 12th May 2007 Dad Kraus | Wish I were there - From: On With Life I visited for only two weeks and know full well how good of friends you have and how the simple life such as theirs can be so alluring. We had so much fun visiting the villages and meeting your friends. I wish we could come back for Christmas 07 only this time take the camera to midnight mass! |
| 3rd May 2007 Stephanie | Hi Erika - From: On With Life It's nice reading your thoughts |
| 1st May 2007 Nancy | un petit chou-chou - From: What You Have Not Seen that's what my french teacher always said was an affectionate term(like for a gf.bf)... i think she said it meant my a little cabbage head...but who really knows ( i guess i could look it up). Anyway, jsut thought i would let you know I really enjoy cabbage now too. I'm glad i have someone to share my love for cabbage. |
| 1st May 2007 Nancy | - From: Welcome to the Elements I've read this one before;). Nice. |
| 24th February 2007 Cindy and Jeff | Erika the... - From: Of the Near Future Erika - strange.....no! Erika - adventurer, Erika - leader, Erika - humorist, Erika - writer, Erika - charismatic, Erika - loving, and we could go on. We think that you are pretty special! |
| 14th February 2007 Lana | oh the memories! - From: Bonne Fete I think reading this blog was more emotional than saying goodbye! Not only can I not wait for you to return home, I can not wait to return to africa. I love your home, your friends, your pseudo family. You are so special, I am so proud you are my sister. |
| 13th February 2007 Lana | such a writter! - From: RESOLUTIONS can I steal this for my poetry class? lol I like what is written, though it is a little sad. as nancy says, "be happy for this moment, for this moment is your life". Love you erika. |
| 17th January 2007 mom | the whole truth! - From: Bonne Fete I have to object to your caption of the four of us in the back seat. What time amount is "not very long" to you?:) Actually I loved the experience! You also should have told the gun story! You are making me sound like I'm making a mountain our of a molehill! I also object to the sleeping picture! Just wait till I catch you sawing logs some day! I absolutely love your summary, Erika. You summed it up the way it was supposed to be! Love you! |
| 17th January 2007 mom | again? - From: How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cotonou You didn't tell me that you fainted again! |
| 16th January 2007 Nancy Jo | - From: How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cotonou I loved all three of your blogs. I think i should win some money. I would come visit you right away. I'm soooo jealous of your family, but also so very happy for them. Talk to you soon! |
| 2nd December 2006 mom | nightmare field trip - From: On a Bench Beneath a Terminalia Tree Every time I get ready for a field trip, I have a nightmare kind of like you were describing. The worst possible scenerio comes to pass. I'm glad yours was short-lived! I'm sure Patrice appreciates your company. You are a talking,walking sprinkler system! Can't beat that! Love you! |
| 2nd December 2006 Nancy and Kate | coachable, eh? - From: On a Bench Beneath a Terminalia Tree Erika, We can't imagine you being a non coachable person....afterall you always do what people tell you.... a very funny story. We also wanted to be just like you....we don't have electricity, none at all, it' also 22 degrees F. here. We are staying in a hotel for the night. A very crappy ice storm took our power, as well as another 400,000 persons in st. louis. Fun winter storms. We miss ya. |
| 1st December 2006 Greta | Predator Tag - From: On a Bench Beneath a Terminalia Tree Predator tag sounds like a really good idea! You are a great teacher! Plus you have wonderful kids to teach, so I'm sure that helps. I just mailed you a letter today! |
| 8th November 2006 Nettie | be still - From: Writer's Block Oh, Erica, this one should be published. I love the title, hinting at something lacking, and then the bounty of what you write!! I hope you can keep this feeling when you come back to this crazy world! Love You. |
| 29th October 2006 Cindy Stuart | Loving to live - From: Writer's Block Your blog was inspiring. That constant pressure of too much to do, stress, hurry seem to be absent in your present environment. You are rich! Love you. |
| 24th October 2006 nancy | - From: Writer's Block just wanted to let you know i read, and i'll try calling soon.:) |
| 24th October 2006 Greta | You poor thing! - From: The Worst Day Ever I remember the emails you sent on your bad day. yuck. I wish you could have found some of that chocolate fan. But the doggies are cute! So are the neighbor girls! Bubbi is getting big! |
| 30th September 2006 Nancy | - From: Le Petit Four, 16 Septembre, 2006 I read them all, and enjoyed! |
| 19th September 2006 Lana | - From: Excerpts from June erika, i didn't think you ever needed to LEARN how to be late! |
| 19th September 2006 Lana | my reason for a visit - From: Pardon You have no idea how bad i want $11 prada jeans....oh and I can't wait to see you either! p.s. your mean face is as funny as mom's. I just can't help but laugh! |
| 5th September 2006 Donna | One Week - From: One Week in Another Part of the World Absolutely gorgeous!!! I know that Greta and your Dad are there now...Hope all goes well!!! |
| 30th August 2006 Dad Kraus | Pictue review - From: One Week in Another Part of the World Good pictures Erika!!! But how come the teeter toters more in your direction? And your telling your friend to lean? Backwards or what? I can see that I have taught you well on the trick photography concerned with climbing and making it look good, but those pictures look more like the Flint Hills or Missouri River bluffs rather than Grand Tetons. I know we have traversed hills that big right here in Osage County hunting quail!!! But you did make it look goood though!!! Love ya much, Dad |
| 28th August 2006 mom | great pictures! - From: One Week in Another Part of the World You gave a very good description of your trip. Is this the same area that Dad and Greta will get to see when you go to the conference up north? You are remembering to be careful, right? |
| 28th August 2006 Nancy | Jealous! - From: One Week in Another Part of the World I'm so jealous you got to go to the mountains, and see the monkeys! Sounds like your doing well! |
| 28th August 2006 Greta | - From: One Week in Another Part of the World It looks really pretty! Woohoo! Is this what I get to see when I visit the north with you?!?!?!?!? |
| 22nd August 2006 Greta | - From: Camp GLOW These girls are adorable!! I bet they had so much fun! What lucky girls to get to vacation and learn new things. |
| 18th August 2006 Nancy | - From: Excerpts from June, Continued Thanks for the shout-out! Also, i'm sure that mine and Kate's haircutting skills would not have scared you. I promise;). |
| 18th August 2006 nancy | - From: Camp GLOW The week sounded fantastic. I'm really glad you are friends with those girls:). |
| 3rd August 2006 Nancy Jo | Nice puppy! - From: Pardon I love your new dog, he looks very cute:). I'm also glad you finally wrote a new blog. It's good to hear from you. |
| 2nd August 2006 Amy | - From: Pardon Mmmmmm, apple crisp! As I was driving Kate back to WY from NE (for Ryan's wedding) we were discussing the grandness of apple crisp. I haven't made it in sooooo long....I'll have to get on top of that and make some for Nick and myself. :) |
| 16th July 2006 mom | - From: Cooking in Benin, Take 2 I believe this is my favorite recipe! You are too clever! |
| 29th June 2006 Jamie Bazil | It's a Girl! - From: The Grapes (and Corn and Cake) of Wrath Erika- I just want to let you know that I enjoy reading your blogs and am praying for you as you continue your journey and work. I wanted to let you know that I gave birth to a baby girl on June 4th. Briahna Lynn weighed in at 7lbs 7oz and 21.25in. long. She is beautiful, and has already gotten to know our Aunt Jill! Take Care Erika!!! |
| 12th June 2006 anonymous | - From: Strong Winds=Fast Closing Doors=Tailess Lizards I love your random entries! |
| 11th June 2006 Shannon | Books - From: The Grapes (and Corn and Cake) of Wrath Erika, I really think that you should start a book discussion blog when you get back to the States. I've got one (though I've been much better about reading than abour writing about the books lately). Can you tell I miss our book club? |
| 9th June 2006 Nancy again | - From: Strong Winds=Fast Closing Doors=Tailess Lizards Nice jokes....haha. |
| 9th June 2006 Nancy | Let them eat Cake. - From: The Grapes (and Corn and Cake) of Wrath Sometimes one sliver of cake is worth more than two days of food. Everyone deserves to have something special every once in awhile... I'm also glad that i'm not the only one who has been so immersed in a book that you feel it is necessary to share passages of the book with other people. REmember when i was reading "Uncle Tom's Cabin"---a beautifully written book that should be read by all. |
| 9th June 2006 mom | pictures - From: Strong Winds=Fast Closing Doors=Tailess Lizards I love your pictures! Can I meet Juanita when I come to visit? She is beautiful! Wait on the snake until after my visit is through, ok? I can handle all of the other critters (I think) Love you! |
| 9th June 2006 mom | I am an ostrich - From: The Grapes (and Corn and Cake) of Wrath It is easy to keep my head in the sand and pretend that no one is hurting. If we see a sad story on the news, we can turn the channel. Sometimes I even look down on some people because I think they could just try harder. How can I be so insensitive? Because the guilt is strong if my head comes above ground. I'm really not a mean person, I just want an explanation of why I am so fortunate and others are not. When I don't know why, I make up excuses or ignore. Is this at all clear? Love you! You do make a difference no matter the size and I'm glad you can still make/eat cake. I like the dictionary analogy. |
| 13th May 2006 Dad Kraus | Kraus Time - From: Mayday Hey Erkia! I really associate with the Kraus time thing! It not that I do not care about being on time, it is that I'll get there when I can, I have to finish what I am doing first. Who coulda thunk things would go the way they do and now the project I am on just blew the whole schedual! What schedual!! If it doesn't get done today, maybe I'll get to it tomorrw! A person has to have time to have a cold beer once in awhile! Keep plugging along, we're proud of what you are doing. We love ya! Dad. |
| 27th April 2006 nancy Jo | on your way... - From: Life yep! your on your way! A beautiful travelblog I must say. If you aren't destined to be an author I hear that you are interested in opening a restaurant in Montana. jimmy sent me an email today! haha. Hope you are well, and i read all three new blogs:). |
| 25th April 2006 Greta | Cute Story - From: This Trip to Cotonou I loved this blog. It sounds like you were still feeling pretty silly when you wrote it! It's very 'Erika'! It looks like you had a fun weekend visiting family and friends. Love you, miss you LOTS. |
| 22nd April 2006 Oly | waouw! - From: Differences that aren't so Different What a trip! Come and see my blog! Thanks! http://lesoliviersdeflorence.skynetblogs.be |
| 18th April 2006 Greta | Corkscrew - From: Update I remember you being the most curly headed of all of us. Especially on nice humid days the hair at your neck would curl into perfect little corkscrews just like that one. |
| 16th April 2006 mom | thanks! - From: Ms. Kraus' Class Thank you for replying to all of our questions! The picture with the snake necklace really got them wondering about things. I know you're busy with lots of things and we appreciate you taking the time. We'll think of more of a variety of questions for next time. Love you to pieces! Did anything ever happen with that West African tale that I sent? I was curious if anyone in Benin had heard that tale before. |
| 15th April 2006 Maggie | Voodoo - From: Ms. Kraus' Class What wonderful memories you are creating for your life's journal. I hope you write a book! I also hope you really do write a book! Send some mangos to us. Can you tell us about health care and education there? Have you seen an elementray school? My kids Emma & Nate would like to know what it's like. ---And please explain voodoo grisgris. Yikes! ;) Maggie (Margaret Michaelis Hanners, Francis' daughter) |
| 15th April 2006 Nancy | - From: Men and Women Sorry that last commet was from me:) |
| 15th April 2006 anonymous | - From: Men and Women I got this the other day..... “You’re so smart,” for knowing midnite is the beginning of the next day, or, “You’re so pretty,” maybe I washed my hair yesterday, but this is just a t-shirt and capris; or, it drives me nuts, and feel a somewhat belittled. Definitly makes me question why am i talking to this person. Agghh! |
| 15th April 2006 Nancy | Eclipse - From: Update I was sooo jealous of you on the day of the eclipse. I am still really jealous. |
| 15th March 2006 Jo Ellen Criger | Mass - From: Maple-land I enjoyed reading your description of the Mass! Needless to say, the music at Scranton isn't quit as good as what you describe there!!(LOL) I'm sure enjoying your journal entries. I'll check this website again soon. Have fun! |
| 21st February 2006 mom | thanks - From: Maple-land Tell all your neighbors thank you from me for taking good care of you and keeping watch over you. I hope that's the only thief you have come to visit. I can just picture you dancing in church - doing "the Erika" You have some moves, baby! |
| 18th February 2006 Nancy Jo | Mass - From: Maple-land I also had the same problem when going to communion. Absolutly no order. It's a good time. I hope you are well and I want to call sometime this week. |
| 17th February 2006 Greta | - From: Maple-land Pee like a pregnant goat? You are weird. |
| 17th February 2006 Shannon | Mass in Japanese - From: Maple-land Erika, I totally know what you mean about having mass in the local language. Most Sundays I go to mass in Japanese at the convent here at the college (at 7:30 a.m.!) Some things are just a little different and, as well as I thought I knew the mass before I left, sometimes I get confused if they are doing the Holy, Holy or the Our Father--I just haven't picked up that much Japanese yet. Luckily, I have the opportunity to go to mass in English sometimes at the Franciscan Chapel Center a train and a subway away. But most weeks, I just sit quietly and try to listen to the readings and homily, and then scurry back to my computer to look the readings up online. Two weeks ago, the priest (new priests are always coming to the convent to serve the sisters) noticed that someone in the congregation was a.) not habited and b.) not Japanese. True there were three other lay women there for mass, but I was the only one who had no idea what he was saying. He decided it was a good idea to talk to me during his homily. He took me so much by surprise that, although I should have been able to understand and answer his question in Japanese, the sisters had to answer for me. Then he asked me another question a little more slowly and after I answered (in Japanese!) he had the same reaction that all Japanese people have when they hear me speak their language the first time, "Kawai, ne?" Which roughly translates to, "That's so cute, huh!?" That was just a twinge embarrassing. Then, at the end of his homily he proceeded to say something in English, pointing out that it was just for me, that just didn't make any sense to me why he would say it. In Japanese he said something about America, December, and Christmas (Christmas time, I'm guessing). (He may have been talking about the movie Love Actually, but I just don't put a lot of stock into that supposition.) Then he said, "There is no greater thing that to love and be loved in return," looking at me for approval. I smiled and nodded (I do this A LOT) and he moved on. It was a good statement, and it was great to get a bit of the homily, but where America and Christmas came into it, I don't know. This is a very long comment indeed (that I will probably put in my own blog also), but I thought I'd share my mass story with you as well. |
| 16th February 2006 Lana | snakes are so cool! - From: The Power of Africa can i borrow that new necklace sometime? i think it would go really well with my new shirt! =) |
| 8th February 2006 Uncle Jim(my) &Aunt Bette (Stews) | The Gift - From: Mmm... Water On today for the first time and we have been pouring through your marvelous journal all afternoon. Erika, you do have "the Gift". Your writings are wonderful and your experiences are "priceless" --thanks for sharing. I seriously believe you should look into publishing sometime in the future. |
| 3rd February 2006 Dad Kraus | Can not wait to visit! - From: Home Hey yovo Africaner! Your home sounds like a good place! Your friends and family here are all talking about coming to visit. I can not wait to meet your friends, of course we will need a translator to converse. Oh yeah, the picture of the road in Africa looks amazingly similar to the mud road next to ours here in Kansas! |
| 3rd February 2006 Nancy Jo | do dum da da da daye - From: The Power of Africa nice snake...did it's tounge ever tickle your neck? looks very much like KS |
| 2nd February 2006 Greta | HI! I AM NOT A TREE! - From: The Power of Africa I love that. It's hilarious, you are so cute. I love all the cute new tops that you are wearing in your pictures. I plan to call you this saturday morning!! (2/4) |
| 2nd February 2006 Shannon | Shirayuri's own, White Girl! - From: The Power of Africa Erika, I totally understand what you mean about suddenly realizing that as similar as you are, you are not a tree! And I, too, am surprised when I see a lot more white people in a day than I am used to. I say things like, "Hey look at that white guy who just walked in. He looks really young." While sitting in a Starbucks! [Okay, that just happened last night!] Shannon and if anyone reading your comments wants to check up on me: http://atchison-to-tokyo.blogspot.com |
| 26th January 2006 Jo Ellen Criger | New Year - From: Holidays Glad to read that you know how to bring in a New Year the right way!! Have a great 2006! I'm sure enjoying reading about all your adventures! |
| 11th January 2006 Jennifer Hitt | - From: Holidays Erika, you need to show them some of the dance moves we invented in Canyon... I think they would go over really well...lol:) Glad to hear you were "happy" for New Year's! I got to see some friends I haven't seen in about 4yrs., but it seemed like no time had passed at all! We didn't get "happy", but we still had a great time catching up... hooray for 2006! |
| 11th January 2006 Jennifer Hitt | - From: Monkey Corn and then Some... Hey Erika! Your descriptions of the food makes me hungry... I have been eating caf food and am running out of creative ideas to make it better...lol:) It's good to hear that you're being challenged; it means that you're learning more about who you are and the world around you! Love ya, Jenn |
| 9th January 2006 Brandon | Found it - From: Good News I found your site horray |
| 8th January 2006 lana | nice answers! - From: Good News Ok erika, I want to be in your wommens club, and i am extremely interested in the coffee-flavored sweetened condensed milk/spicy spaghetti. can't wait! |
| 8th January 2006 Lana | fitting in - From: Monkey Corn and then Some... If your work is to live there, be happy, and learn than nobody is more fit for the job. I can't imagine you being in a new place and not being interested or wanting to learn. I love that about you erika! You fit in anywehre, even if it is different. |
| 8th January 2006 Lana | can't wait to go there! - From: Animals erika I love your pictures! can we make a meal that great when we come visit? |
| 7th January 2006 Nancy Jo | Nancy one more time.... - From: Animals I thought of you while i did some bird watching while swimming in a crocodile infested river...quite invigorating. Cattle Egrets are everywhere here. As for thanksgiving dinner, yours looks fantastic. Meg and i checked prices for turkeys here and an average one cost $40US. jamaicans don't eat much turkey. Keep up the blogging....i've been waiting a long time to read these. |
| 7th January 2006 Nancy Jo | Nancy again - From: Holidays you are quite the party animal. I spent my new years eve and new years at Church...I guess that is what happens when you live in a convent!:) My parents were also here in Jamaica visiting. |
| 7th January 2006 Nancy Jo | This is Nancy (as well as every other comment from MVP) - From: Monkey Corn and then Some... Erika, Plantains are one of my favorite foods here. I think you need to try frying them. They are best fried in the skillet with a little butter. I even had them "candied" once and that was also very good! If you have fried them and still don't like them....send them all to me. It is also Mango season here....but sadly i have only had a few. They are delicious. |
| 7th January 2006 Nancy Jo | - From: Good News I wish i could be gabbing in your women's group. I'm glad you have women around to get to know. |
| 7th January 2006 gma and gpa stuart | blogs - From: Monkey Corn and then Some... Just finished reading and copying your most recent entries. Really glad to have them. Hope your packages arrived okay. Another letter and calander coming soon. Love!!! |
| 7th January 2006 gma and gpa stuart | Animals - From: Animals Excellent blog Erika. Birds, trees, animals, and you. Thanks |
| 6th January 2006 Nicole | Oh, Erika!!! - From: Good News I think that your name for your job is marvelous! It makes it sound very important! I love coming to your blog and reading your many adventures!! I promise you should be getting your Christmas/Valentine's/Easter present by your birthday! |
| 6th January 2006 Greta | Yea Pictures!!!!! - From: Animals Erika, you are SO CUTE!!! I'm so glad that you are finding constellations! Does that book I gave you help or did you find a better one at CLAC?? Love you, miss you! |
| 6th January 2006 Greta | Happy New Year - From: Holidays Wow Erika! That does sound like lots of fun. I'm glad that you had happy holidays. Love you, miss you. -G |
| 28th December 2005 Aunt Steph | - From: Good Friends and Killer Hair You look great in the pictures!! I love your hair that way. You are very wise. When you are 50 and you are wiser than you are now, remember to give yourself credit for being pretty dang wise back in "the day". |
| 21st December 2005 Aunt Donna | SNOW HERE!!! - From: Good Friends and Killer Hair 50 is not old. And no one who is truly 50 +, would be offended! This is such an exciting time for you! Even though missing home, especially for the Holidays, remember the predictability, and sameness of it all!!!And it will still be there when you come home. Kinda boring to us 50 +'s, at times. Stay warm for us! Sounds like you have too much mud there, at times also! Merry Christmas!!!Love You!!!Donna |
| 7th December 2005 Angie Allen | Hello! - From: Good Friends and Killer Hair Hey girly. I've been meaning to write you a little note. I hope things are going good. Be glad that you aren't in Ks. It is snowing like crazy and very cold. Surprisingly it is not too crazy here at work yet. Here is my email at work aallen@doulgas-county.com if you ever have time to write. |
| 6th December 2005 Russell Fawl | Great Reading - From: Good Friends and Killer Hair Just got your blog site from your mom and have spent my plan period and a little more reading your adventures. You have come a long way from the tire swing in Grandma's yard :) Look forward to more fun in the future. |
| 28th November 2005 lana | - From: Jeans and Basketball I love you erika, thanksgiving wasn't the same without you. can't wait til you can be with us again! |
| 22nd November 2005 nancy jo | Happy! - From: Good Friends and Killer Hair You sound so great. I'm so happy for you. I definitly have NOT forgotten about cutting your hair. Or any of our roadtrips. I also got an email from Jimmy. He didn't tell me about the football game....i wonder why? Haha:) |
| 21st November 2005 Greta | - From: Dare Me, I Dare You I can't help it Erika, I love pictures! I was just exploring Nancy Jo's blog, and she had LOTS of pictures! I am officially requesting more from you!! P.S. I love showing people your picture Twinny. She's so cute! |
| 17th November 2005 Jo Ellen | Tree Climbing - From: Dare Me, I Dare You You go girl on that tree climbing adventure! We do know that all you have to do is tell Erika that she really can't do something and she'll show you she can! Good for you!!! |
| 11th November 2005 Diane | Give them time - From: Dare Me, I Dare You You'll have the bosses trained as to what girls can do, in time. I can picture that whole scene in my mind. You go girl!!! |
| 7th November 2005 Lana | you rock! - From: Dare Me, I Dare You I am glad you climbed that tree even though you are a girl. But did you really climb it in a skirt? and How did you manage to do that? I am very impressed with you! love you lots, miss you always ~Lana |
| 7th November 2005 Cindy & Jeff | Got your letter - From: Dare Me, I Dare You We got your letter on the beautiful stationary. It was suitable for framing, to steal a phrase. Love to read your blogs. Think about you all the time. So happy that things are going so well. LOL. |
| 5th November 2005 adele Dodd | - From: Sundays Erika,You sound like my daughter Sarah who is leaving Togo this week after 27 months with PC. She will be in Benin in a week to visit Ben. |
| 5th November 2005 Nancy Jo | Jealous! - From: Dare Me, I Dare You I'm sure I would not have blinked in the forest....monkeys???? Did you see any? I'm very glad that you are working with your hands and getting dirty...it wouldn't be you otherwise. |
| 4th November 2005 mom | - From: Dare Me, I Dare You Erika, don't be too stubborn! You might get into trouble. It's ok to mind sometimes. I'm glad yo got to climb the trees, though! Love you sweetie pie girl! |
| 4th November 2005 Great Greta | So cute! - From: Dare Me, I Dare You Erika, you are so cute sitting on the porch with your doggie! You made me cry with that picture. This is the Erika I know so well who would hide in the field with a book while we are all wondering where you had disappeared to!! Love the dress too. What are they called again? |
| 3rd November 2005 Jo Ellen Criger | - From: A Tour I have truly enjoyed your journal entries. What an amazing young lady you are! And what a great experience for you! You need to put some peanut butter on pancakes the next time you make them- its pretty good stuff! Your writing is fantastic! I'll your web site often. Take care! |
| 30th October 2005 mom | sounds great! - From: A Tour I want to come and see your home! I just baked you some killer oatmeal/raisin cookies! Maybe you can spread some peanut butter on them for frosting. I sure do miss you, but I'm so glad you're liking it there and are meeting nice people. How worried should I be about the Italian man with the machete? Love you to pieces! |
| 29th October 2005 Nancy Jo | - From: A Tour Thanks for the tour, i'm very glad you have a compost pile. Now, my other question is do you have a basketball for you basketball hoop? If not, that sucks for you:). Talk to you soon! |
| 24th October 2005 Nicole | Inspiration - From: Sundays I have spent my entire plan period reading your entries. First you make me jealous of your relaxed life style, second I am so proud of you and all that you are doing, third I'm trying to figure out how to send you no-bakes through the mail! :) I hope that all is well with you, you are such an inspiration to me! Keep on keeping on! |
| 24th October 2005 Lana | ahh peanutbutter pancakes! - From: Sundays I had peanut butter pancakes today! i thought of you. actually i think of you everytime i eat peanutbutter. It sounds like you have a wonderful home there erika! I can't wait to visit you. |
| 22nd October 2005 mom | - From: Sundays Love you to pieces! |
| 22nd October 2005 mom | crying right now - From: Sundays Yes, tears are streaming down my face but it is just because I'm so flabbergasted that you are my daughter and so wonderful to boot- it's not sadness! I'm glad Sundays were always good for you - but even the times when we were running late? Remember those? Those donuts after church must have paid off! You sound like you're fitting right in. Give Derrique a pat for me and thanks for the pictures! |
| 21st October 2005 Nancy Jo | Sunday, Sunday so good to me! - From: Sundays This was a very good entry...perhaps, i'm just emotional right now...haha! Can you believe you've been gone 4 months now. As for me, i have been gone one month and i still feel like i'm very new (but very welcome). i think i will make pancakes this week (for dinner), i'll put the peanut butter on the table just for you! Nancy:) |
| 9th October 2005 Betty | Teacher - From: Yovo Whether you know it or not, you are teaching all of us back here in KS. Things we would have not known withut you. Stay well. I hope for the best for you. |
| 6th October 2005 Cousin Ann | Yovo - From: Yovo Erika, I am always waiting for your next "chapter".....it's great to hear from you and about your experiences. On the map of Benin, there are only a few towns/cities listed. Could you tell us where the villages you live in or go to, are located in your future emails? Thanks and God bless. Ann |
| 5th October 2005 Nancy Jo | Biking - From: To the Cyber Cafe, and Beyond! As for the skirt, i would jsut recommend taht you hike it up a little (Sorry Betsy...haha). Everyone here in Jamaica also is inside by not long after nightfall. Too bad, it is getting dark by 6pm. It drives me nuts and causes me to go to bed early sometimes. Lots of love! Nancy |
| 29th September 2005 Rachel | - From: Yovo Your wisdom is growing with each day E. You've always been intelligent, but this is a beautiful thing to witness. This is the stuff you don't learn from a book. I have to tell you that I brag about you to my students all the time :) I'm awfully proud of you, R |
| 28th September 2005 Kelley | I understand - From: Yovo As a "gringa" in Mexico, I think I get a little of what you are saying. I love to read your blog! You are sometimes a subject of conversation for me here. But no one in Mexico seems to know where Benin is. |
| 24th September 2005 mom | be a lady! - From: To the Cyber Cafe, and Beyond! I guess you haven't ever rode a bike in a skirt before. Can you side saddle? |
| 24th September 2005 Stuart | Hey - From: To the Cyber Cafe, and Beyond! hi Erika! hows it going over in benin africa?i had my First soccer today. we won the score was 7 to 0 us. tell the whole family in africa hi for me and i'll talk to you l8er maybe when we call you again. Love ya |
| 23rd September 2005 Aunt Stephanie | - From: Yovo Interesting stuff Erika - I enjoy your writing! I'm glad to know you are doing well. I Love You! |
| 18th September 2005 Nancy Jo | SOunds great - From: UNO and Frisbee We miss you here..and tomorrow I will miss you there..that is the BIG J!haha:) |
| 17th September 2005 Lana | - From: UNO and Frisbee Erika you sound like you are doing a wonderful job. I think that you will surely make an impact on the people and the enviroment. And the part about the book, well i thought of stuart too. How cute! i can't wait to meet these people. love you erika beth! |
| 17th September 2005 mom | your best yet - From: UNO and Frisbee I loved this entry! You don't mind if I steal your lesson on trees, do you? I'll send more pb. Stuart is gonna love you for the tusk comment! |
| 9th September 2005 Greta | Duh, not all 'strike anywhere' - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? So I was at a bar last night, and they had a container full of matchbooks. It made me think of Erika, so of course I had to perform some very scientific experiments. These cheapy matches are not only strike specific, but are difficult to strike in the one place allowed! Maybe you just need a liter. |
| 6th September 2005 Donna | Dancing - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Erika!!! Glad to hear that things are going well!!! Kaitlyn and I were outside the walkup Sonic, 2 days ago, waiting for our order, on the way home from Tulsa...the music playing was Aretha Franklin's, RESPECT, and we were both dancin' outside Sonic!!! Keep Dancin"..it's in the genes!!! Love, Aunt Donna |
| 4th September 2005 Nancy Jo | waiting patiently - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? I'm so glad you finally have put in another entry. I've been waiting to hear about any new adventures of yours! Miss you! |
| 3rd September 2005 Betty | - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Erika,I can just imagine you doing your dancing...just like in the bride's maid dress. Thanks for sharing your story. Tell us more about the people and your day to day life. Take care. |
| 30th August 2005 Greta | Football champ - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Maybe basketball isn't what you should be working on. Maybe you should perfect your soccer skills and whoop-up on Stu when you get back! I hardly think that you could be mistaken for a voluptuous man, but you will have some amazing farmer's tans when you get back! Love you, Miss you --G |
| 29th August 2005 gma and gpa stuart | Leah Watkins - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Leah, just back from Sri Lanka and habitat for humanity and teaching in Japan before that. From our Church, may communicate with you. Good letters, keep them coming. Love and lots of it. G & G |
| 29th August 2005 mom | - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? I just saw the picture of Freujus! He is just adorable even if he does spit out your rice! |
| 29th August 2005 mom | - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? I didn't know there were other kinds of matches either. Hope the people in Atieme accept your "uniquness" as well as your family Asse. Love you to pieces! |
| 29th August 2005 mom | glad you liked the peanut butter! - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? |
| 29th August 2005 Amy | - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Oh Erika, how I love reading about your adventures, it makes me look forward to mine more and more! I hope all is well and watch the mail, a letter is coming for you soon! Lots of love my PC buddy! -Amy |
| 29th August 2005 Lee Kraus | Not "Strike Anywhere"? - From: Arent all matches "strike anywhere"? Wow, after all these years of lighting campfires and barbecue grills I figured you would have known to read the package to be sure you were purchasing "Strike Anywhere" matches. You can get both here in the U. S. also. Because I consider matches a thing for emergancy use while on an outing in the wilderness or without power here at home, they must be strike anywhere always, maybe you are only used to swiping my matches from the camp kit? I wondered why they disappeared so fast when we would only go camping a couple of times! When it comes to dancing, do you play your music in Africa loud enough so all the neighbors on the next mile can hear it also, or do you just use your head phones. In the case of the headphones, Maman would probably think you were possesed if she caught you dancing wildly to music she could not hear! Keep dancing anyway! Dad |
| 27th August 2005 Julie Shively | You haven't changed a bit! - From: Oh, Poop Erika, as I read your journals I think to myself about what an amazing life changing experience you are having in Africa, and yet at the same time I'm thinking...this is the same old Erika I have always known. I can actually hear your voice as I read each entry. It is way cool to tell others your stories. Thank you for sharing! |
| 23rd August 2005 Alex | I miss you ms. Stouty stout stout - From: Ho Hum Sorry it has taken me so long to write! I have been really busy, and dont have internet at my new APT yet. I am also very tied up with my Girlfriend, who needs a lot of attention (as do all women). we have been dating for 2 months and 6 days =). Well. I will email you ASAP, keep the pictures coming!! |
| 23rd August 2005 Lana | shocking!! - From: Ho Hum the similarity is very shocking indeed!!! I myself have random moments of harassment from crazy women, and just the other day I was watching animal sacrifices also!! hahaha I love how you look at things in such a calm way. You make everything seem "normal". -Lana |
| 22nd August 2005 Gma K | Make the best out of any situation - From: Ho Hum Hi Erika, I just read your latest Blog and thought I would make a comment. Your information is very informative, educational and sometimes even funny. You always manage to make the best out of any type of situation and come away "happy". Keep it up! Love you, Gma K |
| 19th August 2005 Mary | Mother of another PCT in Benin - From: Je suis la! Erika, I enjoyed your story. It gave me some insight into how my daughter is living. Stay health and safe. I'll check this site again to read your next exciting and interesting update. |
| 18th August 2005 Ann Cayler | Thanks - From: Ho Hum I received your blog address from your Grandma, and I am enjoying it immensely....so educational! I'm so glad you are doing well and having many unique experiences. Your blog is excellent. Thanks for sharing! Ann |
| 17th August 2005 Greta | - From: Ho Hum Sounds like you are having lots of fun there. Miss you, Love you. Greta |
| 17th August 2005 Greta | EWW!!! - From: Oh, Poop Yea, that might be a little too much information on the bathroom story. Cockroaches are awful, I agree and apparently industrial strength!! I'm so glad that you are able to enjoy peanut butter. I think I have a tape recorder somewhere, I'll see if I can find it and mail it to you. Maybe Stuart has it.... Love you! |
| 7th August 2005 Jennifer Hitt | Did this come out of Nat'l. Geographic?! - From: Je suis la! Erika, as I was reading your blog I was feeling like I was reading something out of National Geographic! I can tell that you are truly experiencing the culture and learning from them. Cleaning all your laundry by hand... I'm impressed:) I am so glad to hear that you are doing well! I hope you continue to stay safe and enjoy your company! Look in the mail for a letter I sent you:) I can't wait for your next story! Love ya!! |
| 4th August 2005 Cyndi | Wow - From: Je suis la! I am putting this site on my favorites. Your mom told me about it at enrollment. How cool. I can't imagine my daughter being so far away. What a life experience. You are a special person. I am thinking of you often. I will tell Amy about your laundry and motoring problems. Take care. |
| 4th August 2005 Aunt Donna | Underwear - From: Je suis la! Do you need some new u-wear? Let me know!!! Love you, Aunt Donna |
| 3rd August 2005 Josh Strohm | Good to hear from you ... :) - From: Je suis la! Hey EBK ( or is it EBA? ), Anyway ... I am glad to hear that you are adjusting well to your surroundings. What a difference huh? Of course I have never been to Africa, but if it is anything like the parts that I have been to in Mexico ... its definitely different (probably even more so there though). Just keep your mind on the reasons why you started making this journey in the first place. We're rooting for ya! I look forward to hearing from you again. (BTW, Josiah is 9 weeks and 11.5 lbs!!) Josh |
| 2nd August 2005 Diane | Good looking sibs - From: Je suis la! Who took the picture of you and your sibs? Have you already explained the about the mark they all have on their left cheeks? Or, was there some kind of mark on the cameral lens? Please keep writing about your escapades. |
| 2nd August 2005 Daphne | Thanks for the blog! - From: Je suis la! Thanks so much for sharing your experiences! I've learned so much from these two entries; I look forward to hearing more! Take care! DM |
| 1st August 2005 Nancy | Leaving A-town today! - From: Je suis la! Today I am moving out of Atchison. I was lucky enough to talk to Stuart this morning. He informed me that you updated your log! Hurray! I'm so excited to finally see your family. I hope you have recieved the letters i have sent you. We are missing you here too! Talk to you soon! |
| 26th July 2005 Cindy | Great stories - From: Je suis la! Oh Erika, you make me laugh. What an adventure you are having! Eat some of that delicious tropical fruit for me...my mouth is watering! Will you eventually be assigned your own zemi or continue to be a hitchhiker? ; - ) Love you...keep the stories coming. |
| 26th July 2005 John Hyzer | Your colleague's father - From: Je suis la! Erika ... I enjoyed reading your recent account of life in Aplahoue. My wife and daughter and I are especially interested in your exploits as our son, Garrett, is one of your fellow Environmental Action group volunteers. Say hi to him for us, and continue to post your great stories. John Hyzer |
| 25th July 2005 Lana | how exciting! - From: Je suis la! Sounds like you are having a wonderful time! rules are made for breaking anyway right? you taught me that erika. just be safe and use good judgement. By the way, your family seems wonderful! love you bunches! ~Bee |
| 25th July 2005 Liz | You are so cool! - From: Je suis la! You're awesome, I mean it. Live it up, learn lots and then come home and school me in the ways of the real world and how much help you were to tons of people, okay??? |
| 24th July 2005 gma and gpa | - From: Je suis la! We sure appreciate the blog. FYI we made a copy to send to Jim. He says next time he will write to you in French. Gma says she hopes to have a letter off to you soon. We think of you every day. Love you! |
| 24th July 2005 Stuart | Hey - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! (I'll spell half of this stuff worng so bar with me)hey erika i can use this instead of writing you letters!! yes! :P no but dad and i just got back from the curent river trip down to arkansas and i think you might be happy to hear that we saw TONS or great blue herins and like 6 bald eagles. oh it was so cool! we jumped off 60 ft cliffs swung on rope swings anddid lots of fun things. well i'll talk to you l8er bye bye. |
| 24th July 2005 K Appiah | - From: Je suis la! Writing from Chicago. I lived in China from a year with various host families and what you said about underwear is also true in many parts of China, and even India when I was for a short time. Well, you know the reasons. So now you have your work cut out for you - how to gingerly get people to overcome ingrained habits. Of course, their beliefs would not hold up when subjected to scientific tests. But when did people ever think logically about the things the do. This is where you come in - to use sensitivity and some innovative thinking to get people to get past their long-held but silly prejudices. If the old folks are past teaching, the younger folks are always there to be worked on. It is such beliefs and their associated behavioral patterns that militate against equality among the sexes and causes untold damage to the societies concerned. Be the humanist you have set yourself to be by joining the Peace Corps and think see what you can do. Bye for now |
| 23rd July 2005 Greta | Just checking - From: Je suis la! I wanted to make sure that this logging on thing worked. I have a much better comment later. Love you Erika! |
| 23rd July 2005 Greta | - From: Je suis la! Cute Family Erika! That grin on Darly IS very Stuart-esk. Is that your new shiney bike in the background?? Write more soon! We like pictures too! One is definately not enough. |
| 23rd July 2005 mom | love you! - From: Je suis la! I laughed out loud while reading your laundry story! The picture is wonderful, Erika, What a good looking bunch! Remember to tell your family thank you, thankyou, thankyou from me! Love you to pieces and am so proud of you! |
| 23rd July 2005 mom | family - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Tell your family thank you, thank you, thank you! |
| 23rd July 2005 mom | cool - From: Je suis la! The picture is great! What a good looking bunch! |
| 23rd July 2005 mom | so proud - From: Je suis la! Oh Erika, you will have so many great stories to tell! I laughed out loud reading your laundry one! I love you so much and am so proud of you! |
| 19th July 2005 gpa Stuart | - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Brandon and I are giving your blog a trial. Do you hear me now?? BB and Gpa |
| 19th July 2005 Cindy | You're so smart! - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! This travel blog is a great idea. Your pictures are incredible. Can't wait to see the Africa pictures. |
| 13th July 2005 Josh G | bon voyage - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Erika, sorry I had to miss your going away - I'm sure it was quite a momentous occasion. Hope you are getting settled in nicely and enjoy receiving some acculturation from outside the US. I know I could sure go for some. I'd type something French but I think all I remember are swear words. =/ Get us some nice pics on this blog soon, but in the meantime take care of yourself and live it up! |
| 11th July 2005 Jordan & Mary D. | How cool is this?! - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Erika, We thought of you when we were in church last Sunday and the air conditioner wasn't working right. Boy, was it warm! Hope you are staying cool. We can't wait to see how life is in Africa. Good luck, stay safe and have fun. |
| 9th July 2005 Donna | LOGGED ON!!!!! - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Love ya!!! |
| 5th July 2005 DanQuinn | Hey! - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Erika, Glad to see that you set up this site. Hope that your trip there will be a safe one. Watch out for the bugs, especially the ones that you can't see. Let me know if there is anything in particular that you might need in the way of a care package. Take Care, lots of luck, and God Bless. Dan |
| 5th July 2005 Jamie | Hey - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Hey girl- I hope you enjoy your trip!! You will be in my prayers!! I look forward to hearing from you and seeing more great pictures!! Eb will miss you too! Take care girl! - Jamie |
| 4th July 2005 Josh Strohm | Good Luck EBK ... - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Hey Erika, I think its pretty cool that you have set this up. I look forward to hearing from you and all about your journeys. No matter where you go, what you're experiencing, how good or how bad your current situation may have you in ... remember that God is in control of your life and the circumstances of life. He will guide you, protect you. Remember that, and keep him close to all that you do. Even if we can't be there for you, He will be! I know you probably won't have much chance for internet connection and you may have limited time, but check out my website for updates on what's going on with us (if you are able). I'll have pictures and news up there once a month. Take care Erika. We'll be praying for you and we look forward to your return. Josh |
| 3rd July 2005 Akane | Good luck! - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! You are awesome! I'm so glad you made the travel blog, so that we can keep up with how you are in Africa. I'm so excited by your pictures from Benin. Good luck and travel safe! ~ Akane |
| 3rd July 2005 Chrissy K | Hard Core, Peace Corps - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! Erika, You are beautiful and amazing and gorgeous. I love you so much. We will be with you in spirit in all that you do. Thats a nice shot of Eb, he is such a handsome dog. Have lots of fun, and remember; you're more than hard core, you're peace corps. |
| 27th June 2005 Erika | - From: Holy Cow, only a Week Left! I love this page erika! you have very exciting pictures. I hope that you can keep it updated with more great pictures from africa. I love you a lot erika beth! ~Lana |
