In Manila

Friendly’s Guesthouse, Manila - August 3

I cannot tell you how good it felt to finally sleep in a bed, and to take a shower.  But now the jet lag is kicking in, and though it’s just around 12:30 pm, I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck. A sleep truck.

My first day in-country is usually when my normal enthusiasm is beset by doubts.  Sometimes makes me wonder…I love traveling to tropical developing countries, but it is difficult sometimes.  It’s hard to feel like you don’t understand what’s going on.  It’s hard to think back to the comforting routine of home.  It’s hard to feel isolated.  I do miss fieldwork at established field stations, where there is a community of other researchers, with basic infrastructure set up.  But this independent mode of travel and work allows me greater flexibility and lets me get closer to local people and culture, instead of nuzzling into the relative shelter of a hive of fellow American researchers.

Looking at my calendar...seems like time will zip by.  Is it bad that I'm already counting down the days?

I think when I get to Puerto and have a solid night’s rest, my mood will lighten and I will be better able to process what I need to do.