My first steps in this country were six months ago… Solvita Fridrihsone

If I have to name one thing I did and I am proud of – for sure it would be – knitting hats for “Romanii center” kindergarten children as Christmas gifts. It was awesome to see them, their parents appreciating our work. It gave me a kind of spare positive energy.

My first steps in this country were six months ago – 06.09.2013. Honestly, I was scared till the moment I got out of the bus in Baia Mare. Stress was taken away because of the cozy environment I was in, because of the people who welcomed me. I felt safe. Sounds too sweet? Probably, but that’s how it was.

I was excited to meet my flat mates, the other volunteers. Of course at the beginning everything seems a little bit more “sunny” than later. But no, I’m not saying that I enjoyed then and not anymore. Even more – right now, I enjoy it way more. But then there was this big excitement and that feeling that everything around me is new – culture, people, nature etc.

Although I had spent in Romania only five days, I agreed for quite a big challenge for me – hitchhiking. Aim, Vama Veche. Reasons why did I agree? I wanted to get to know the others and I’ve never ever hitchhiked in my life. I wanted something new. It was hard, in one point I broke down, I was ready just to turn around and come back. But I didn’t. Mostly because I was afraid to come back alone. I didn’t and I know I have things to remember. But for the others, if you have never hitchhiked, maybe don’t start your first trip with crossing all country! But there is a saying that advice comes after already mistakes are done.

While I got used to my new home, duties and everything else, I didn’t have any big responsibilities. Only that much that I was helping volunteers from other project with their upcoming event. But soon after that, I started to work by my own: schools, kindergarten, seminar. Time to time – it is not easy, even reasons used to be different, to wake up. But I have to, for I need to prepare my materials and activities. My motivation, by the way still, is higher than everything else.

Of course, I had breaking points, I was homesick, it took my energy away and a little bit from my motivation. And time to time I had these simple social and integration issues. But I learnt to get over,  or maybe I did not. Maybe I just learned not to take it so personal. I don’t know.

If I have to name one thing I did and I am proud of- for sure it would be- knitting caps for “Romanii center” kindergarten children as Christmas gifts. It was awesome to see them, their parents appreciating our work. It gave me a kind of spare positive energy.

I could say that I’ve ONLY 3 more months left here till the end of my project, but it’s still more than for short term volunteers with 2 months, so I’m looking forward to do things I could be proud.