A year ago I hadn't even begun to hatch my plan for volunteer work in Africa. Now, I've celebrated a New Year here. Amazing how life can change.
The last week was quite enjoyable, as we finished Christmas celebrations and began to get ready for the New Year. As a treat for the kids, our team took them to Tunza Beach on Saturday. We hired two daladalas, and picked the kids up in the early afternoon for a day at the beach on the shores of Lake Victoria. Even though it was slightly rainy, that did not dampen their enthusiasm for swimming. I've never seen such an excited group of kids in my life.
After swimming, we tried to teach them volleyball (to mediocre success) and then bought all the kids sodas and chips (french fries). It was a fantastic day, and for those who have donated money, you will be happy to know that is one of many things you have helped finance.
New Year's eve found most folks at a party at the Hotel Tilapia, a somewhat posh (by Africa standards) hotel on the shores of the lake. We had a great meal, danced and enjoyed the company of people from every continent, except Antarctica.
I had a unique experience yesterday, being invited to the home of a local girl named Sarah William. She has just finished secondary school, and wants to have English friends. She wrote me a shy letter about 10 days ago, and we finally managed to catch up with each other yesterday. She sent her niece to fetch me, and I walked about a mile with her to Sarah's home. The whole family (minus Dad who was working) turned out to meet and welcome the Mzungu (white person). I looked at about 100 photos of the family, and then was treated to a meal of beef and cooking bananas. It was quite a treat to be taken in at their home, and next weekend I will return the favor by taking Sarah to lunch with me in town.
The amazing experiences continue...
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4 comments:
Happy New Year, Lorna!
Just got back from the Outback Bowl. We've had gorgeous weather all week (sunny and low 80s) but today it rained! My Volunteers lost. :(
We were supposed to have a vigil tonight to mark the 3000 American soldier who have died in Iraq, but are postponing until tomorrow because of the weather. Such a tragic way to begin the new year.
Hugs to you and all of your kids. Keep up the good work!
love,
Susan
Dear Lorna,
I continue to love to read about your adventures. I hope that you are taking a ton of pictures for me to add to my "living vicariously" life. Things here continue to be rainy (big surprise-eh?). Christmas was nice with continued saga/drama to share at a later time. It sounds like this trip is turning into the adventure you were hoping it would be. Continued wishes of surprised adventures and much health.
Take care,
Tim & the boyz
Happy New Year to you Lorna!
I am thoroughly enjoying your adventures. You are so amazing and strong! I am so happy you are over malaria. Big hug and can't wait to read more (and see pictures when you can get them up).
Love, Lori C (We miss you around here.)
Hi lorna, just wanted to say how much your blog has helped me prepare over the past few weeks! its made me feel a lot less nervous about what im letting myself in for! am really looking forward to just getting there now, so ill see you in just over a week!! take care, Ruth xxx
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