The parks in and around our little area of Dhaka are actually quite beautiful and well-kept.  Here you can see three of us, myself, Hannah (my Korean roommate), and Sue (head of First School) in a park not too far from our apartments.  Although we do still have issues with getting followed and stared at sometimes, for the most part it is acceptable and safe to go here and walk and escape from the city.
Overall, I still do have moments where I feel out of place, yet I am trying to find "my version" of Dhaka, which I have found is entirely based on my attitude.
For example... when I was riding a rickshaw home from school the other day, I found myself almost shocked to pass a man riding the other way with his two monkeys sitting on the seat beside him...  you can see this two ways... you can laugh and say "Wow I wish I had my camera"  (like I did!), or you can get upset about how Dhaka isn't more civilized and Western.

I am really starting to appreciate the differences and I think that that in itself is part of the experience here... just because something is different doesn't mean that it's wrong.  Who wouldn't want their pet monkeys on the rickshaw with them?  Makes sense right? :)
That's all for today, I am just trying to note these little things more often.  Report cards are still weighing me down so I haven't been answering emails.  Please bear with me and I will get to you soon! :)

Thanks again for all of your support, it is much needed!

In Christ,
Corinne