My team and I live in Viile Tecii, Romania. It is about 2 hours away from Cluj and about 1 hour away from Count Dracular's castle. This village is tiny–less than 200 homes on a main road and its attached dirt roads. It is common to hear a horse's hooves on the pavement, followed by a buggy and a Romani with the day's milk on a daily basis. There are chickens, cows, pigs, rabbits, ducks, horses, dogs, and cats throughout–as well as some of the friendliest children I've ever met. I enjoy running and walking around this village (as well as surrounding villages tucked away in lush and beautiful green hills), where a cool-down commonly includes kisses and hugs from Babushkas and children alike. I enjoy the lush and lovely hills here almost as much as I enjoy the people. Cultural differences are often subtle and sneaky, but a few that are blatant include the volume of a Romanian or Romani's voice when he or she speaks. Let's just say I struggle in this area, for I enjoy a quiet(er) environment, but I am learning through and loving the people through this. People are open, giving, and enjoyable to spend time with–even when I can only half-communicate through English, Romanish, German, Spanish, and sign language. It's always an adventure and I am enjoying it, even though miscommunication is common.
The following link is to my Facebook(c) page that has photos on it that I took on September 23rd of the home I live in and corresponding activities, like collecting eggs with a 6-year old and canning green tomatoes with the women-folk.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2043531&id=220400931&l=4a7a24b65e
