Liberian Creole English: I'm learning...

Take time = Be careful
For true? = Really?
I coming = I will be back or I want to talk
Please one minute = Please come here and talk/help me
Good image = good reputation
Fat = Healthy, Well-off
Cheek-lay ("Chicklets") = Chewing Gum
How you coming on? = How are you doing?
You sleeping? = Are you staying the night?
He running too fast = He is driving too fast
Your hair low = Your hair is short
Your line hot = You are popular/A lot of people are calling you
Let go = Would you like to come?  Are you ready?
Feeding = Eating/Providing of food
Pash it = Mash or pound it
Trousers = Jeans
Suit = Outfit
Reduce = Lose weight
Fine Girl - used to address a waitress


People I'm working with can't read and write.  I know that shouldn't be a shock... as in I'm aware of the illiteracy rate here in Liberia (over 50%), have worked with students who were not literate etc, BUT when you go to send someone a text message and then are reminded... "no you need to call him, he can't read that" - it's still a shock.

I wish I had time to write about learning to cook fufu with my coworker - outside over fire, competing with a goat, chickens, etc.
OR to write about the conversation I had with several friends the other day about family planning issues, HIV/AIDs, etc.  Suffice it to say I'm convinced EDUCATION is the key!
OR to write about my experience helping to write the training on simplified versions of Liberian domestic laws (YIKES)!
OR to write about a woman in the community confiding in me about her husband's continued beating of her... (gave me goosebumps).
OR to write about the woman who was nursing a baby boy last week... and when we asked about him this week, we were told he had passed... still can't really wrap my mind around that one.
OR to write about the presidential candidate that used the pulpit at church on Sunday to campaign for over 30 minutes.
OR to write about my return visit to the orphanage... I LOVE Ma Betty!
OR to write about the party we threw for our regional director's retirement (SOOOOO much fun)!

But I don't (happily) because I'm on my way to the field for the next three days!  So, I apologize for the lack of writing lately, but it's crunch time and I feel useful and purposeful!  Yea!

Hope you're well!  God Bless!
Kate