Going black and blue in a beautied city

When I was little, I spent a weekend away from home with friends of the family. I had caught a really bad cold and kept saying "I got a runny nose" to ask for help wiping it. It is now the family joke. Well, here is a new one, "I have a black eye." First ever. Now, I must back up to tell you the story.


As you can imagine, things were busy before I left for Geneva. I had no idea how much to pack for 3 months. Inevitably, I found last minute things to add. Quickly, before my sister and I left for the airport, I threw an extra pair of jeans in my suitcase, which was already in the car. After putting things inside the luggage, I lifted my head fast and smacked my eye on the car door. What a mess--it was bloody and hurting. Needless to say, it was interesting asking the flight staff for ice for my eye, arriving to meet my Swiss family and starting work with a black eye. (My work ID and United Nations passes are really, ugh, interesting.) Hopefully, things only get better from here.


Now, onto the good stuff. Geneva has been amazing. I have seen the historical part of the city, visited the government building, walked by the lake in town and been to the park across from my work. My family is really great and have been wonderful guides for me. I am learning SO much about Geneva, Switzerland, Europeans and the general culture.



I have been pretty self-sufficient thus far. Geneva seems pretty easy as the amenities are similar to the U.S. Transportation is great--I take the train to and from work each day. It is a quick 20 minute ride from home to GCSP. Food is similar with many more fruits, vegetables and, of course, lots of cheese and wine.



On the work front, I am learning a lot, even though it is only day 3. GCSP is part of the United Nations, as an affiliate member and is geographically down the road. In the office, we literally work with people from around the world. Participants in GCSP programs are sent to Geneva by the governments of their countries. It is a great place to be, conversations have been fascinating. In my short-term of duties, I have started by researching the field training exercise we will be completing during the peace training course in September, and learned more about NATO and the Council of Europe. Specifically, how both organizations work on building peace through mediation.


I definitely have a lot more to see, do and learn here in Geneva.