Bienvenue Chez Moi

January is almost over, marking the end of month seven in Benin and the completion of a forth of my Peace Corps service – even if that still seems hard to believe. It also reminds me of my New Year’s resolution and promised parental Christmas present of house pictures. So without further ado – welcome to my home.

Living Room and Pantry (aka the green lockbox)

I live in a two room, 283 square foot apartment connected to two other identical abodes. My front room serves as the all-purpose pantry, den, kitchen, dining room, and even garage (for bike storage), while my backroom likewise doubles as both my bedroom and the sink and counter portion of my bathroom.

Dining Room and Kitchen Sink

My actual toilet and shower area remain in a space behind my house, still covered with a tin roof but separated from the rest of my living quarters by a door and concrete wall – for which I am eminently grateful as it provides another barrier (in addition to my mosquito net) between me and the mice and roaches.

All of my decorations of course come courtesy of a combination of my finger painting skills, newly discovered obsession with collages, photos/letters from home, and random finds at the Zinvie market.

The best part about it: after these seven months, it really feels like a home.

My Bedroom...the fan is critical especially with chaleur almost upon us

Kitchen and Garage