things that I'm thankful for (in no particular order)

Friends - Life is much funner when you can vent your frustrations/bizzare moments with others that can understand where you're coming from. Me and my training buddies have gone through a lot together. It has been nice to meet some of the people from the new class of volunteers (M24's) but I also miss having the previous class here too (M22's). Regardless, I feel that there's a pretty strong bond even though I've known these people for a short time. Family - It is great to be able to talk to my parents, brother, and sisters (via skype) and keep in touch through facebook. Also the packages are wonderful. I also have an extended Mongolian family that watches over me. Yesterday I came home late and was surprised to find that my ger was warm. I had been gone all day, but my sister made a fire for me. School - Work isn't always easy, but I have a lot of people watching out for me. They have provided my ger with a washing machine and refrigerator above and beyond Peace Corps standards. I have made friendships with some of the teachers outside of the English department and they are very wonderful people. The school also makes sure to involve me in activities such as holidays, competitions, and so on. Counterparts - Its fun to see people grow and develop. Though progress is slow sometimes, I do work with a great group of English teachers and other community members. Though communication is not always perfect, they really help me to stay informed and are my main group that I interact with. My home here and my home far away - When I think about America, I get homesick. When I think about Mongolia, I realize that I will sincerely miss it. It can be emotional for me when I realize that my time here is going to be only a little bit longer. It is a mixture of happiness and also feelings of how much I will miss one place when I am at the other.