The People Always Stare

So, I find that generally I tend not to share culture aspects or what life as a Peace Corps Volunteer can be like. One of the trademarks of life as a Volunteer is the constant staring that we must always endure. I have struggled with this quite a bit. At first, it felt okay because I was new, but it hasn't stopped and I'm realizing that it probably will not, especially since I live in a big village. At first, I put a lot of effort into my clothing, hoping that I would 'fit in' with everyone else on the bus, or at school. There is no such thing as 'fitting in'. With a glance out of the side of their eye, they would know I was not one of them. In the beginning I made sure to assimilate as much as possible, polish my shoes, wear jeans for casual gathering, never leave the house without makeup or jewelry, and the like. I would NEVER imagine wearing workout pants or sneakers on the bus. Oh the stares! How could I manage?! Then one day, I realized I was wasting my time trying to minimize the staring. No matter what I do, where, say, or go I will be stared out. Instead of worrying I embrace the staring (as much as possible) by wearing obscene outfits that I would have NEVER left the house in, back in America. I decided today to share that with you today. This is a splendid jacket that was actually handed down to me by my Armenian host family last fall. I think that they get clothes from a relative of a relative of a relative from America. I can't imagine a single Armenian wearing this ... jacket? I think it's a jacket. Or maybe a pullover? I'm not sure, but it's got elbows and everything. I hope you enjoy this photo shoot as much as I did.

 This is me wanting to look majestic. 

 This is me showing off my long hair, and ability to hold my hand on my hip . 

 Here I am, pretending I am the limelight of an 80's party.

 Here I am, pretending that I a pensive 80's model.

Here I am, as a young 80's soccer mom. 

This outfit was dutifully pared with black and purple running sneakers, and black capri work out pants.