This is my second entry today, but since there are "important" government people here in Tengeru, the power will not be shut off today... Interesting.
So I have officially survived the dala dala. For those of you who may not be familiar with this term, a dala dala is a mini bus that acts as a taxi in Tanzania. Typically in North America, this mini bus would fit 8 people comfortably - maybe even nine, but in Tanzania this would be unheard of. I want to be clear that I had no intention of ever ever taking this means of transportation, as it really did send chills down my spine, but today, I did it. Silvano - the tailor asked me to accompany him into town to create a WAMATA stamp for the coffee bags. He told me we would be taking the dala dala. It started out with 23 people and as we proceeded at each stop, more and more got on... in the end 27 bodies were squished like sardines into this vehicle. The most interesting part was the Sean Paul music playing over the loud speaker. I was amazed... a little freaked out... but proud that I can now say that I have survived this crazy experience... in all honesty though, I don't think I'll ever do it again:)
Thanks for staying with me!! I wanted to add a picture of some of the small children who run up to me every single day screaming "MZUNGU" (white person). They run up to me, grab my hand and walk with me until
I reach my destination. As you can see in the picture, I have fallen in love with every single one of them!One more thing... sorry for being so scattered, but I also wanted to post a picture of our experience last night. We visited Pete O'Neil's compound. He was a former Black Panther who claims he was exiled from the US due to faulty allegations.
He is a very interesting man, and independently of his past, is now doing a lot to help the people in his village. He has even begun installing solar panels in over 100 houses to provide power.I also wanted to let you all know that I will not be taking orders for coffee, but will be bringing some back to sell at Ten Thousand Villages, and should it be successful... hopefully have WAMATA coffee as one of the products they will sell. My girls are very happy, very beautiful, and slowly we are learning a lot from each other.
Nana - I wore your old pant/skirt to work today... everyone loved it...
Pam - everyone is asking about the angel - it continues to keep me safe and keep you with me.
Jamie and Jen - I can't thank you enough for the toothbrushes and toothpaste. I have brought them on many home visits, and the people are so very thankful.
Brad - I am giving away many of the Canadian flags... the children and adults love them, and tell me that they will serve as reminders of my smile...
Marianne - your goodies and plastic bags are coming in very very handy!
Fran - the rulers and pens have been given to 2 local non-profit schools
Thank you all!!
4 comments:
Hi Annie:
Wow - I am continually amazed at the tales we read (never miss a day now) of your intelligence, courageous ventures, and wonderful work. I am sure you will return home a much-changed person. How much we take for granted in our comfy Canadian homes, complaining when cable TV is out for the night, or our restaurant meals are not just as we ordered them ! I am certainly looking at life differently after hearing about your experiences. You are truly making a difference to these peoples' lives, and it sounds as though your influence will remain long after you come home. We look forward to your homecoming, safe and sound, and wish you well as you continue your wonderful work !
God bless and godspeed !
Avril & Marc
Just want to let everyone know that you can click on the photos to enlarge them. Actually, you can click 2 times and really capture the hauntingly beautiful eyes and smiles of the Tanzanian children.The blogsite had many difficulties today, so the posting of the pictures was delayed.
Enjoy!
Hi Annie,
Most of us wish we could make the world a better place but you've found a way to manifest your dream. You're there, exactly where you're meant to be, doing exactly what your purpose in life is all about. I'm drawn like a magnet to your daily entries. It's heart wrenching to read about this life on the other side of the world and I cannot even fathom experiencing the things you have. How will you leave these beautiful people? Will you bring a part of each one of them back with you so that we can be blessed by their beauty? We could learn so much from them (I especially like Zik - he's sooo cool. How could we not love him when he reminds you of your papa? Could he possibly be your angel while you're there in Tanzania?)
You did a wonderful job storming the heavens with the coffee plan. I know it'll be successful.
You've only just begun!
May you continue to walk with angels.
Hi Annie.....Wow as I sit here in my comfortable environment I can't help but imagine everything that you are going through right now...I'm amazed!! It sounds as though you are having the time of your life and doing so much good there....not that I am surprised!! I check in with you every day so I can learn more and see what you have been doing and Mike and I are both so amazed and proud of you!!! Keep up the fabulous story telling and all the great pics!! Be careful and although I'm sure they are loving you being there we are all just as anxious to have you back home!!
Mike, Krista & Jack
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