Only 2 full days left until my journey comes to an end. I sure am going to miss this place. In the last few days, we have enjoyed many new experiences. From the 3.5 hour church service that literally took my breath away, learning how to make Batique art, shopping for souvenirs at the Maasai market, washing my clothes in a bucket, seeing one of the girls' new desks, and best of all taking the girls shopping for their Kitenge (fabrics), this past week has been full of adventure. There are now only 5 CCS members left at the compound, so it is very quiet, and has allowed for reflection time that I am quite thankful for. Later today, Silvano is taking Kara, Lesley and myself on a hike to see a local waterfall. We are then going for Ethiopian food... can't wait! Tomorrow, I am bringing Elly to the English school to enroll her in the same class as Silvano (thanks Mom!!), and hopefully going to visit the school that Thompson (our security guard) built for the children in his community. Thanks to Fran, I have enough rulers to give to all the students.
Again, I have to thank all of you for living this adventure with me. The support you sent though your comments, phone calls and e-mails has kept me strong and healthy. I am so very fortunate in so many ways.
Here are descriptions of some of the experiences mentioned above.
Mount Meru - in the distance. Every morning Kara and I walk through a corn field on our way to placements
. This is one of the views.
No washing machines here in Arusha!!
These are the thirty 3-4 year old students at Baba Juma (father Juma's) day care. Baba Juma asks that parents pay $3.00 per month, but when they don't have the means, he never turns away a hungry child.
Don't worry... I'm not getting any crazy ideas... but these twins sure were cute!
Unloading all those condoms... thanks CANFAR!!!
The desks are in!!!
7 comments:
My Dear Annie,
I am so VERY, VERY proud of you. Reading all your experiences has brought out some unique emotions in and over me. It has created a very strong desire to help you even more with your future projects.
'Way to go' girl.
Love ya,
Dad
Its hard not to wonder why we are so lucky to have the life that we have when so many have nothing. We truely are blessed.
WLT
Annie,
From your writing, the experience you had hoped for definitely occurred. We am so happy for you that you have had such a wonderful experience. Selfishly, I am looking forward to your return to hear even more about your journey.
Erin and Ray
Sorry for the grammar mistake...We "are" so happy that you have had such a wonderful experience. It's a good thing school starts in a few days...I think I am losing touch!
Erin
Annie,
Although your trip is winding down, your help is just beginning. People who know you have to understand that this experience has opened the doors to a life of helping and continued efforts for such good causes. You have touched so many peoples lives, not only in Africa but back at home as well. Navigating the "blog" has been a wonderful experience for people and has triggered so many different emotions. Congrats on an amazing experience and thank-you for making me realize just how one person can make a difference.
I can't wait to see you!!!!
Have a safe trip home.
How proud can a Mother be???? Just look at my beaming face. I am so happy for you, Annie, and not at all surprised at all that you have accomplished. As Brad and Pam have said, methinks your (our) work has just begun. Can't wait to have you home.
With love and admiration,
Mom xxoo
Annie,
I can only imagine how difficult it will be to leave all those whom you've met in Tanzania. But you are leaving a bit of yourself there as the work continues and lives are affected. Through the wonders of technology I've followed your journey. I know it's just a snippet of all that you have been a part of and seen. Your life will be forever changed because of this experience.
Through your experience my desire to visit Africa has intensified. Hopefully that will be a reality soon. You are in my prayers as you wrap up things these next few hours and travel back home. I look forward to hearing more when you've had an opportunity to settle in at home and back into the swing of things at school.
Take care,
Cindy H.
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