No day but today, right?
Is it in the times where I feel completely on my own that I (A), feel left out, or (B), I realize the full potential that I may not be meeting? I'm not sure, but somehow my laziness turns into acknowledgement which can open up a deeper understanding and possible revolution. So we take the good with the bad, right? Ok, two sentences in and I'm already over my head.
I guess I've just had a lot of 'me' time lately to think without a whole lot of outlet of my thoughts (ten hours alone in the car just MIGHT do that to ya), but it seems like every avenue our life drives down comes to a stop, a passing, a halt or a completely new doorstep. What do we do? Embrace it? Look past it? Race ahead to the next stop? Where do we decide, and what lay in the making of those decisions? I am racing towards the end of this: the end of this week, the end of this semester, the end of this education and Minnesota itself! Why? Why I ask? Why why why?! Anticipation is mounting, but why not mounting for the next minute, the next day, the next encounter? Why do I have to think about smiling lately? Where is the joy? What have I piled all my marbles into that have left me feeling shorted, left out, unsatisfied and searching?
Yes, I am in over my head. I would like to take this so far semi negative feeling post and put a positive spin on it... I am looking forward to tonight. While it is hard to do sometimes, I am going to go forth with what I want to do: tonight being see a play: regardless of if I have anyone to join me or not. Rocky Horror Picture Show on campus (live play!) and while I know virtually nothing about it, I am a senior and have yet to go to a play on campus! So I will show up as the doors are closing and the play is beginning, in hopes of being discrete, find my place and enjoy it. After all, it is the only night I am not working. And this weekend I have an 'old friend' who I get to see and couldn't be more excited about. The semester is nearly over- and somehow I have survived! I had an amazing weekend at home with people I love, this should be enough!
Monday I met with a man from Kids Against Hunger, which is where I will be doing my internship next semester. I couldn't be more excited! I think I need that in my life: I need to be humbled, brought back to my roots, realize my passions all over and even just wipe away some of the materialistic and other views that I have been picking up on more and so prone to lately. This is going to be a good thing! Besides being such a hands on experience and a great cause that I get to do more than volunteer for and learn from, I will see, witness and just dive into the world of the hungry, both locally and globally with an organization that is ACTIVE and doing and being! How great, how necessary, why wouldn't I be smiling today?
Oh, I am. I will be. I just want the extra bounce in my step back. I want the thrill of a good conversation. I want to be questioned and think on and reflect deeper than I have been lately. I just want something real. Real people. Real relationships. Whether blunt and honest or deep and insightful, I think that is the root of what I do miss and have been missing.
How many turns can this post take? Let me count thee ways... hahaha. And I want more photography.... Where did all the bright shining faces and people and places go? Let me get back to the roots of what once drove me... woke me up in the morning with an eager heart and kept me up late into the night because time was so precious there wasn't a moment to lose. Oh life, bring back my enthusiasm! Oh to myself: stop being lazy and fearful, start taking chances and allow yourself to live again! And love. With open arms and not a care in the world. Free, ready, willing... for anything that is thrown this way.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
I guess if you don't jump you'll never know if you can fly
So I think I am going to write a quick blog just to sort of process through some stuff. The past three days (I know it isn't long, but I procrastinate so I put a whole lot of stuff into a really short time frame) I have been running around campus getting all of the documentations, copies and talking to my reference writers working on this JET application- to be an assistant language teacher in Japan. And I know- Japan? If you asked me why, which you might, I'm not sure I would have an answer. But sometimes we stumble upon things for a certain reason that is unclear... and doesn't necessarily make sense until way later when we look back in retrospect. So to you my friends who are questioning 'why Japan?' Well, to you I say, why not?
It seems for awhile I've been looking for a confirmation of the path or road I need to take, the next step and phase in life: but I think it's become clear through that retrospect/introspection idea. like many things in life, the answer was written in my experiences, waiting for me to discover all it has to offer and show me. I have entered things blindly in the past- the reservation and South Africa to name some of the bigger ones, and I think it turned out for the best. Being able to enter a culture, community and even country that is so entirely different from the way that you were raised and being thrown off- set off balance for that time period gives you a chance to readjust. To reorganize and regroup and figure things out. But it does more than that. Taking a chance on something new gives you the opportunity to be unbiased and truly see a people for who they are. Without any other objectives than creating a relationship, mutual learning and finding a common understanding can go a long way. In a time where love is so often overlooked for power, greed, money and lust; finding a place to love across all other factors can be hard... which leads me to my next point.
Not many people know I am applying for this. And for a few different reasons, and to me they are good reasons. One is that I wanted this to be my decision to make. I wanted to decide what I want to do after college: where I want to go and be able to accumulate an array of experience coupled with adventure and excitement that might impact... will definitely impact the next years. So why not? Without anything holding me down or tying me to any one particular state or city, why not fly away with my freedom while I can? Another reason is just my passion? I guess passion for gaining an appreciation or love for another culture. It is hard for some people to understand given the past history why I would want to do this- but it is so simple and so plain to me that there is a need for an awareness that while there may never be the picture perfect pageant answer of 'world peace' there can be individual peace. And that is gained and achieved when we open up ourselves, our lives and our love to strangers and allow ourselves to see people- and them see us... and perhaps, in this moment, in that moment of self realization you realize a little bit about yourself and that other person... that you really aren't all that different. In fact... you might have a lot of similarities and within those similarities and the realization of the differences... we can find a unison. And while this song may not sing out in perfect harmony, it is the beginning of a ballad that can create an everlasting melody to flow to the next generation, and the next and the next. In reality, in risking a little we might be creating a new future and a new hope: for ourselves and those around. Footsteps to follow, and an encouragement to ourselves and others. This could be an old song that has been sung before, but it doesn't matter; it has awakened our soul and felt deep within our heart of hearts. This is our life- one life to live!
And I know that I would not be content- I could not be content sitting and watching, being a passerby in my own life. This is a life that is worth standing up for the injustices, speaking out for the silent and fighting for what lights our hearts. And while we laugh with a light heart at times, and break for the pain of strangers- it is in the greatest moments and the deepest pain when we can most easily unite. So let us unite! Let us see others for who they are and what they are doing and gain a better global appreciation for individuality and beauty.
Ah, to live a life with a smile, recognizing the beauty and the pain and seeing those who are ready and willing to do something... and all of this stemmed from my thought process of this application? No wonder I'm having such a hard time making my mission statement pointed. Well, all is fair in the blog community I suppose. As far as I know, these are empty words shall they never reach the eyes of another reader. But nothing is ever done in vain where there is a purpose, and I believe I have a purpose.
Well, love goes out to you- from the bottom of the CSU where I have this beautiful November sunshine shining down on me from the huge windows..... ah, windows... love. Let us look up in hope and out in adventure!
It seems for awhile I've been looking for a confirmation of the path or road I need to take, the next step and phase in life: but I think it's become clear through that retrospect/introspection idea. like many things in life, the answer was written in my experiences, waiting for me to discover all it has to offer and show me. I have entered things blindly in the past- the reservation and South Africa to name some of the bigger ones, and I think it turned out for the best. Being able to enter a culture, community and even country that is so entirely different from the way that you were raised and being thrown off- set off balance for that time period gives you a chance to readjust. To reorganize and regroup and figure things out. But it does more than that. Taking a chance on something new gives you the opportunity to be unbiased and truly see a people for who they are. Without any other objectives than creating a relationship, mutual learning and finding a common understanding can go a long way. In a time where love is so often overlooked for power, greed, money and lust; finding a place to love across all other factors can be hard... which leads me to my next point.
Not many people know I am applying for this. And for a few different reasons, and to me they are good reasons. One is that I wanted this to be my decision to make. I wanted to decide what I want to do after college: where I want to go and be able to accumulate an array of experience coupled with adventure and excitement that might impact... will definitely impact the next years. So why not? Without anything holding me down or tying me to any one particular state or city, why not fly away with my freedom while I can? Another reason is just my passion? I guess passion for gaining an appreciation or love for another culture. It is hard for some people to understand given the past history why I would want to do this- but it is so simple and so plain to me that there is a need for an awareness that while there may never be the picture perfect pageant answer of 'world peace' there can be individual peace. And that is gained and achieved when we open up ourselves, our lives and our love to strangers and allow ourselves to see people- and them see us... and perhaps, in this moment, in that moment of self realization you realize a little bit about yourself and that other person... that you really aren't all that different. In fact... you might have a lot of similarities and within those similarities and the realization of the differences... we can find a unison. And while this song may not sing out in perfect harmony, it is the beginning of a ballad that can create an everlasting melody to flow to the next generation, and the next and the next. In reality, in risking a little we might be creating a new future and a new hope: for ourselves and those around. Footsteps to follow, and an encouragement to ourselves and others. This could be an old song that has been sung before, but it doesn't matter; it has awakened our soul and felt deep within our heart of hearts. This is our life- one life to live!
And I know that I would not be content- I could not be content sitting and watching, being a passerby in my own life. This is a life that is worth standing up for the injustices, speaking out for the silent and fighting for what lights our hearts. And while we laugh with a light heart at times, and break for the pain of strangers- it is in the greatest moments and the deepest pain when we can most easily unite. So let us unite! Let us see others for who they are and what they are doing and gain a better global appreciation for individuality and beauty.
Ah, to live a life with a smile, recognizing the beauty and the pain and seeing those who are ready and willing to do something... and all of this stemmed from my thought process of this application? No wonder I'm having such a hard time making my mission statement pointed. Well, all is fair in the blog community I suppose. As far as I know, these are empty words shall they never reach the eyes of another reader. But nothing is ever done in vain where there is a purpose, and I believe I have a purpose.
Well, love goes out to you- from the bottom of the CSU where I have this beautiful November sunshine shining down on me from the huge windows..... ah, windows... love. Let us look up in hope and out in adventure!
Monday, September 21, 2009
This is my journey.
" I am what you see, not what they say. But if i turned out to be, could you love me any way?"
-You'll Ask for Me by Tyler Hilton.
In a day like today, everyone wants to be someone. Any why wouldn't we? We are taught from day one to dream big, set high expectations. We are learning from kindergarten through high school how to set goals and reach them, constantly asked what we want to be when we grow up and encouraged to believe in that, then dream bigger dreams and never stop on our own paths to success.
Life has been making me extra giddy lately.
I've been looking at tons of photography online lately and it's been really inspiring. Since I've 'opened myself up' to this whole blogging scene, I have seen so many people who are so passionate about what they have, what they do, where they are talented and truly following after their own hearts, whether its a person who is a vegan sharing her recipes daily, or a person in love and sharing every detail to the planning and day of her wedding, to people who love books or politics or writing or fashion or crafts- whatever it is. I'm not sure if I have one of these things, or lots of tiny things. But lately I've been getting more and more excited about all of these little things and it makes me so excited for the future and what it has in store. I hope to never forget the freeing feeling and just the abundance of life I felt while I was abroad. From the culture and lifestyle that it opened my mind up to, to the people that opened my heart and blossomed relationships I never dreamt possible. I'm not sure if it is just something I have felt semi limited by in my life, but people and their reactions or expectations have always been important to certain aspects... and I have continued to live in a way that surprises people because of the choices I have made...
If I remember right, I really did wake up one morning senior year and say to myself "I want to swim in college" and very similarly, I woke up one day while in college and said "I don't want to swim any more, there is too much else out there" and just like one day I said I wanted to study abroad, and one day South Africa was just on the top of my list. I still have that page, kind of funny when I found it last Thursday.
But why can't we just wake up and decide to follow our heart? It is not a mental awakening, it awakens the soul and rejuvenates passion and heart and a feeling that every person should know and be connected with, not detached from.
So sure, I have a lot to learn. I have tons and tons to learn! But thats the adventure... thats the journey. Embracing the similarities and differences that each and every person we come in contact with, every terrain and stretch of land our feet cross.. to see the beauty and all that this world has to offer.
Ah, exciting isn't it! Maybe that's why I've been so giddy lately. Maybe that can be my own little *staple... to help others see the joy in following after these different possibilities and enjoying each moment, regardless of where we are at and what we are doing.
So where does my joy come from?
...The faces of the people I love, hiding my face behind the camera and forever having those images, conversations, cultures, everything that is heart warming and moving. People in general. I can't even explain this enough. I don't spend enough time embracing these things in my life either, getting too tied down in the monotonous hours of homework or getting caught up in complaining and giving in to merely surviving. I want to do more than that!
Whether you decide to hop, skip or jump- tread lightly on today. Relax, jump into all they day has to offer. See things in a new way. Try not to get caught up in what brings you down. Attempt to brush things off. Fill your days with what you love.
"I like where ever I am. That's my biggest secret."
-Warren Zevon
-You'll Ask for Me by Tyler Hilton.
In a day like today, everyone wants to be someone. Any why wouldn't we? We are taught from day one to dream big, set high expectations. We are learning from kindergarten through high school how to set goals and reach them, constantly asked what we want to be when we grow up and encouraged to believe in that, then dream bigger dreams and never stop on our own paths to success.
Life has been making me extra giddy lately.
I've been looking at tons of photography online lately and it's been really inspiring. Since I've 'opened myself up' to this whole blogging scene, I have seen so many people who are so passionate about what they have, what they do, where they are talented and truly following after their own hearts, whether its a person who is a vegan sharing her recipes daily, or a person in love and sharing every detail to the planning and day of her wedding, to people who love books or politics or writing or fashion or crafts- whatever it is. I'm not sure if I have one of these things, or lots of tiny things. But lately I've been getting more and more excited about all of these little things and it makes me so excited for the future and what it has in store. I hope to never forget the freeing feeling and just the abundance of life I felt while I was abroad. From the culture and lifestyle that it opened my mind up to, to the people that opened my heart and blossomed relationships I never dreamt possible. I'm not sure if it is just something I have felt semi limited by in my life, but people and their reactions or expectations have always been important to certain aspects... and I have continued to live in a way that surprises people because of the choices I have made...
If I remember right, I really did wake up one morning senior year and say to myself "I want to swim in college" and very similarly, I woke up one day while in college and said "I don't want to swim any more, there is too much else out there" and just like one day I said I wanted to study abroad, and one day South Africa was just on the top of my list. I still have that page, kind of funny when I found it last Thursday.
But why can't we just wake up and decide to follow our heart? It is not a mental awakening, it awakens the soul and rejuvenates passion and heart and a feeling that every person should know and be connected with, not detached from.
So sure, I have a lot to learn. I have tons and tons to learn! But thats the adventure... thats the journey. Embracing the similarities and differences that each and every person we come in contact with, every terrain and stretch of land our feet cross.. to see the beauty and all that this world has to offer.
Ah, exciting isn't it! Maybe that's why I've been so giddy lately. Maybe that can be my own little *staple... to help others see the joy in following after these different possibilities and enjoying each moment, regardless of where we are at and what we are doing.
So where does my joy come from?
...The faces of the people I love, hiding my face behind the camera and forever having those images, conversations, cultures, everything that is heart warming and moving. People in general. I can't even explain this enough. I don't spend enough time embracing these things in my life either, getting too tied down in the monotonous hours of homework or getting caught up in complaining and giving in to merely surviving. I want to do more than that!
Whether you decide to hop, skip or jump- tread lightly on today. Relax, jump into all they day has to offer. See things in a new way. Try not to get caught up in what brings you down. Attempt to brush things off. Fill your days with what you love.
"I like where ever I am. That's my biggest secret."
-Warren Zevon
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Lets Rock n Roll
These are a few of my favorite things...
trains (I can see them from where I am sitting at a downtown coffee shop)
coffee (esp organic and fair trade!)
local coffee shops
parks
walks
swinging
bonfires
art
music (diggin the relaxing sultry music playing here)
procrastinating.
Can procrastinating be on this list? Not sure. But I am a pro. Hardest class of my college life, and I am no where near ready for the test! Working in about an hour for 3 hours, then class, then test! Why did I decide last night that One Tree Hill and Gossip Girls was more important than studying for this test? Ah, life. And choices. I need to work on that actually:: making better choices. And what better time than the present, right? Ok, I'll start with my first better decision and get off the computer and study study study.
Side note: I also joined the 20 something bloggers so if you're stopping by, hello! Give me a little break if my blog is pretty bare as of now, I'll work on it!
Always, love.
trains (I can see them from where I am sitting at a downtown coffee shop)
coffee (esp organic and fair trade!)
local coffee shops
parks
walks
swinging
bonfires
art
music (diggin the relaxing sultry music playing here)
procrastinating.
Can procrastinating be on this list? Not sure. But I am a pro. Hardest class of my college life, and I am no where near ready for the test! Working in about an hour for 3 hours, then class, then test! Why did I decide last night that One Tree Hill and Gossip Girls was more important than studying for this test? Ah, life. And choices. I need to work on that actually:: making better choices. And what better time than the present, right? Ok, I'll start with my first better decision and get off the computer and study study study.
Side note: I also joined the 20 something bloggers so if you're stopping by, hello! Give me a little break if my blog is pretty bare as of now, I'll work on it!
Always, love.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
'It ain't nothin but a breeze' -Jimmy Buffet
It’s been a long time, long enough that I left a country, entered readjustment period (still there) full of transitions and left home to start my senior year of college (Hurrah!) But for the sake of getting my blog on, we’ll pretend like it was just yesterday. To be completely honest, not sure anyone will be reading this. Therefore, I will continue to blog and write for the pure and honest reason that I just enjoy writing. There, you have it folks! That’s the big secret. So buckle up, or jump off if you’re not ready for it. I’m coming back, full of spirit, vigor and excitement for life and living. Flying by the seat of my pants, burning the candle at both ends, so on and so on… just understand that this semester lands me right at the busiest portion of my life in the past two years. And you know me, I’m loving each minute and every moment that a busy schedule has to offer. Just so you have an idea, I’m working two jobs, doing a nonpaid/non credit internship and taking thirteen credits. Need I say more?
Well, whether I need to or not, I’m here already so might as well keep going…
Coming home and adjusting was more of a day to day process, and I could handle that. I don’t think I experienced the overwhelming feeling of missing South Africa or anything, it was more in the smaller moments and the memories. But with so much to look forward to in life, who wants to spend time dwelling in what is not possible? Indeed, therefore I kept practicing putting what I thought I learned pretty well in SA, and that is living day to day and living in the moment.
Catch 22- except I’m graduating in a short eight months so some post graduation planning may be happening, but for today we will stick with the immediate, most exciting happenings.
1. Today I went with the photographer I'm interning with and shot my first wedding! It was amazing. One of the best things I've done lately, and gave me a renewed and empowering feeling, not sure why, just felt as if more things were possible in life. Seeing things in a different/more positive light? All things that are needed. So I came home and sat and looked at camera/photo stuff for a few hours. Also lead me to fixing up this blog, which is exactly what I've been meaning to do! And here we are, right?
2. Tomorrow is my first day on my own at Bdubs! Feels like its been awhile, but that's just because I've had about 4 shifts a week the past two weeks to train. And thank goodness that is over! Tomorrow the Vikings play, which in Minnesota is a pretty big deal, though I must say it doesn't compare to the Husker's sea of red, but hopefully it'll mean good business! I'm working a party and they pretty much have a full staff on for the game. Whew!
3. This is a matter of interest that I suppose I just feel like adding: in my entire three years of college (including the months spent in SA) I can't say I've ever actualy gotten homesick... until coming back to school! Summer days heated up and the nights weren't any different, my appreciation for friends and family must have mounted while I was away for so long and all of it must have been blended up and come out with me wishing I weren't here! Business has always been a distractor for me, and to be honest it is probably saving me right now, and I am thankful! I just can't wait to get a paycheck!
4. Some things I've been addicted to lately... fmylife.com, textsfromlastnight.com, and postsecret.com. So cool! Oh, and Gloriana. Now? Quite possibly job searching, saving for my next camera toys, photography goodness and all that jazz. Boy oh boy, it's already two am! Not much has changed, I still do pretty well of minimal amounts of sleep.
Few others: addicted to nonfiction/autobiographical novels lately. Working at a day care. Haven't drank much coffee lately. Biopsych is going to be the end of me. Goal is still to do at least a triathlon in the spring, but have yet to start training. I love old friends and reminiscing, random run ins and catching up. There is a chance I might still attempt to teach myself guitar. Yeehaw!
Feels good to be back =) Even if it is for nothing more than my own personal satisfaction.
<3 .
Well, whether I need to or not, I’m here already so might as well keep going…
Coming home and adjusting was more of a day to day process, and I could handle that. I don’t think I experienced the overwhelming feeling of missing South Africa or anything, it was more in the smaller moments and the memories. But with so much to look forward to in life, who wants to spend time dwelling in what is not possible? Indeed, therefore I kept practicing putting what I thought I learned pretty well in SA, and that is living day to day and living in the moment.
Catch 22- except I’m graduating in a short eight months so some post graduation planning may be happening, but for today we will stick with the immediate, most exciting happenings.
1. Today I went with the photographer I'm interning with and shot my first wedding! It was amazing. One of the best things I've done lately, and gave me a renewed and empowering feeling, not sure why, just felt as if more things were possible in life. Seeing things in a different/more positive light? All things that are needed. So I came home and sat and looked at camera/photo stuff for a few hours. Also lead me to fixing up this blog, which is exactly what I've been meaning to do! And here we are, right?
2. Tomorrow is my first day on my own at Bdubs! Feels like its been awhile, but that's just because I've had about 4 shifts a week the past two weeks to train. And thank goodness that is over! Tomorrow the Vikings play, which in Minnesota is a pretty big deal, though I must say it doesn't compare to the Husker's sea of red, but hopefully it'll mean good business! I'm working a party and they pretty much have a full staff on for the game. Whew!
3. This is a matter of interest that I suppose I just feel like adding: in my entire three years of college (including the months spent in SA) I can't say I've ever actualy gotten homesick... until coming back to school! Summer days heated up and the nights weren't any different, my appreciation for friends and family must have mounted while I was away for so long and all of it must have been blended up and come out with me wishing I weren't here! Business has always been a distractor for me, and to be honest it is probably saving me right now, and I am thankful! I just can't wait to get a paycheck!
4. Some things I've been addicted to lately... fmylife.com, textsfromlastnight.com, and postsecret.com. So cool! Oh, and Gloriana. Now? Quite possibly job searching, saving for my next camera toys, photography goodness and all that jazz. Boy oh boy, it's already two am! Not much has changed, I still do pretty well of minimal amounts of sleep.
Few others: addicted to nonfiction/autobiographical novels lately. Working at a day care. Haven't drank much coffee lately. Biopsych is going to be the end of me. Goal is still to do at least a triathlon in the spring, but have yet to start training. I love old friends and reminiscing, random run ins and catching up. There is a chance I might still attempt to teach myself guitar. Yeehaw!
Feels good to be back =) Even if it is for nothing more than my own personal satisfaction.
<3 .
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Picture Perfect...
There are a few more fun things and exciting events to share. Sunday, after an early church and another watch of High School Musical 3, we took about 20 kids on a hike. The hike was over 2 hours and we went through town, up a road and climbed a hill. The kids did really well! While some were scared of snakes popping out at them, and others were on crutches, they did an awesome job and we all got to enjoy the view from the top. This is a picture of Zimkhita and Nosipiwe at the top, aren't they cute?
This is Zimkhita and Tabisa and I at the park. It was sunny and a beautiful day! Yesterday we went to the park with almost all of the kids. I must say it was the most successful park visit that I have been on since I have been here: minimal crying, kids got along, didn't wonder off into the fields. The girls absolutely love taking pictures of themselves. They grab my camera and then run off and take six different pictures of the same exact thing: one person just standing there. Not smiling and not close up, but just standing. So today I wanted to teach them a bit about how fun it is to take pictures as a group and all the different poses you could do.
Well for twelve, thriteen and fourteen year olds, they got into this. And it was so much fun! We took pictures on stairs, bleachers, old signs, broken down walls, under trees, laying on the ground, etc. but it was so fun! When I got back from the park I went and photoshopped them a bit and I'm going to go to try and print some off for them today or tomorrow. 
Two nights ago we had a talent show and I think I mentioned that in the last post? Either way, here are a few of the girls who were singing for the competition. I have some videos too. The talent is amazing!
Yikes, I leave tomorrow night. Running out of time! Mixed feelings, but as always extremely excited to go home! Can't believe it.. as the time gets closer, it seems as if the time slows down and speeds up all at once. See you before you know it!
With love.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
This is here, this is now...
Oiy!
Here we are, the last week of being in South Africa. Where to begin? So many things to say and I don't know where to start. Should I tell about my journey, how since my last blog I went back to PE, took a test and finished a project, then 48 hours was back at the Children's home? In reality it wasn't that long that I was gone, but still things had changed. The new fence that the two guys are working on made some good progress, several of the kids had different hair styles and even the foundation was at a different stage. It's a stressful situation here with uncertainty ringing in the air all over and the reality is unavoidable. There are fewer and fewer funds each day and the fear approaching all that there won't be enough to make it through. Yet there is faith that they will be provided for. We have been asked by Dianne and Carol to do fundraising of our own but I am torn about it. Not many people know that I am here and it is hard to explain this situation in an email, to do it justice. I am praying and trusting in the Lord that he provides for these children but also for ideas of ways in which I can help. I know there is always something I have, and that is my pictures, so we will see where we can go with that.
Yesterday we did a Treasure Hunt/Scavenger Hunt where we raced around town with different clues (rhyming clues, mom you'd be proud of me ;]) and took different pictures at each. This is a picture of the kids jumping off the tourist information being monsters. Ha, we split into two teams and unfortunately my team lost, but we all enjoyed pop and some chips as a prize! I was happy the kids got into it.
These are some of the boys. They are stinkin adorable. There are about 9 little guys and 2 younger girls and I love playing with them. They are always getting into mischief (my favorite was the chalk fight on the football (soccer) field that resulted with white chalk covering everyone and everything! Including me! They also like to play superman where the practice jumping off tables and chairs and the porch and I catch them. Sometimes they go one at a time, but it's usually two or three, occassionally four. I'm going to try and hold up five before I leave ;).
One night we had a Braai and made a fire in the braai pit, roasted hot dogs, potatoes and even had salad. It was quite the feast! Afterwards, Marlin (one of the volunteers) had a recipe for baking bread over the fire. We had found bamboo like poles earlier in the day and took some of the bread and wrapped it around the sticks. After 5 or so minutes of holding it over the fire, we had instant bread! It was yummy and provided several hours of entertainment. I'm hoping to use that bread recipe in the future! Since the official Dianne Lang Foundation is closing, last Monday we went to the community center where we took a lot of the clothes the kids didn't need (roughly 12-16 boxes) and we sold the clothes. We wanted to be fair and make good deals, and also wanted to raise money for the organization, but the clothes went for roughly 10-50 cents, some for a dollar (new winter jackets and even blankets we sold for barely over a dollar) but it was quite the experience to be on the other side of the market, selling the items. In this picture you can see some of the ladies who came that were looking through the clothes. They loved trying to make a good deal! 
This is a shot of some of the little guys in the back of the house in the yard. There isn't necessarily a play ground, but there are these monkey bar type things to climb on as well as an interesting tire swing. 
Last night we had a talent show. These kids are great once they get going. Between singing and dancing they were all over the place. The older girls; Kholiwe, Aya and Nomhle wouldn't stop dancing. Then the middle aged girls, Beverly, Joyce, Tabisa and Ntomoboxolo sang these pretty songs. Even Michael and American busted some moves that I hadn't seen them do before! I'm sad that for some reason not all the photos I wanted got transfered to my usb, but hopefully this gives you a tiny picture and glimpse. Hope things are going well for all! Looking forward to seeing you, and sharing more about the past 5 months.
With love always <3.
Here we are, the last week of being in South Africa. Where to begin? So many things to say and I don't know where to start. Should I tell about my journey, how since my last blog I went back to PE, took a test and finished a project, then 48 hours was back at the Children's home? In reality it wasn't that long that I was gone, but still things had changed. The new fence that the two guys are working on made some good progress, several of the kids had different hair styles and even the foundation was at a different stage. It's a stressful situation here with uncertainty ringing in the air all over and the reality is unavoidable. There are fewer and fewer funds each day and the fear approaching all that there won't be enough to make it through. Yet there is faith that they will be provided for. We have been asked by Dianne and Carol to do fundraising of our own but I am torn about it. Not many people know that I am here and it is hard to explain this situation in an email, to do it justice. I am praying and trusting in the Lord that he provides for these children but also for ideas of ways in which I can help. I know there is always something I have, and that is my pictures, so we will see where we can go with that.
Yesterday we did a Treasure Hunt/Scavenger Hunt where we raced around town with different clues (rhyming clues, mom you'd be proud of me ;]) and took different pictures at each. This is a picture of the kids jumping off the tourist information being monsters. Ha, we split into two teams and unfortunately my team lost, but we all enjoyed pop and some chips as a prize! I was happy the kids got into it.
These are some of the boys. They are stinkin adorable. There are about 9 little guys and 2 younger girls and I love playing with them. They are always getting into mischief (my favorite was the chalk fight on the football (soccer) field that resulted with white chalk covering everyone and everything! Including me! They also like to play superman where the practice jumping off tables and chairs and the porch and I catch them. Sometimes they go one at a time, but it's usually two or three, occassionally four. I'm going to try and hold up five before I leave ;). 
One night we had a Braai and made a fire in the braai pit, roasted hot dogs, potatoes and even had salad. It was quite the feast! Afterwards, Marlin (one of the volunteers) had a recipe for baking bread over the fire. We had found bamboo like poles earlier in the day and took some of the bread and wrapped it around the sticks. After 5 or so minutes of holding it over the fire, we had instant bread! It was yummy and provided several hours of entertainment. I'm hoping to use that bread recipe in the future! Since the official Dianne Lang Foundation is closing, last Monday we went to the community center where we took a lot of the clothes the kids didn't need (roughly 12-16 boxes) and we sold the clothes. We wanted to be fair and make good deals, and also wanted to raise money for the organization, but the clothes went for roughly 10-50 cents, some for a dollar (new winter jackets and even blankets we sold for barely over a dollar) but it was quite the experience to be on the other side of the market, selling the items. In this picture you can see some of the ladies who came that were looking through the clothes. They loved trying to make a good deal! 
This is a shot of some of the little guys in the back of the house in the yard. There isn't necessarily a play ground, but there are these monkey bar type things to climb on as well as an interesting tire swing. 
Last night we had a talent show. These kids are great once they get going. Between singing and dancing they were all over the place. The older girls; Kholiwe, Aya and Nomhle wouldn't stop dancing. Then the middle aged girls, Beverly, Joyce, Tabisa and Ntomoboxolo sang these pretty songs. Even Michael and American busted some moves that I hadn't seen them do before! I'm sad that for some reason not all the photos I wanted got transfered to my usb, but hopefully this gives you a tiny picture and glimpse. Hope things are going well for all! Looking forward to seeing you, and sharing more about the past 5 months.
With love always <3.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Embrace the joy of the moment
"The miracle is this:: the more we share, the more we have" --Leonard Nimoy
Sure, time flies, but to watch the landscapes, the atmosphere, the people and the places change so rapidly and so fast... well, it's kind of exhilarating, but also a lot to take in. From a month ago, at the beginning of May to here, the beginning of June, to next month being home in the States at the beginning of July... As always trying to make the most of every moment, staying motivated and energized is essential. I am currently at the Dianne Lang Foundation, volunteering with around 30 children and becoming more aware of the day to day events of this aspect of South Africa. The thing is, the home is in a time of transition and uncertainty. The foundation is not a NPO, it has been ran off of private donations and funds from other people, but now it looks as if the funding is no longer there which leaves a lot of questions and changes in the very near future. There is a wonderful lady who has put in an application to become a Non-profit Organization and is still waiting to be approved by the government, but the outlook seems hopeful. Until then I get to play with kids all day, help paint buildings, maybe assist in building a fence (I guess it's a guy's project? Oh well, we put up 3 last summer =]), and knit scarves for all of the girls here. Can you believe that it gets below freezing in Middelburg? As I sit and type in the office, it's actually a tease that I can see the sun shining out the doors next to me as my hands are icy and my feet cold! But there is no heat here and the kids are always wearing their jackets and wrapped in blankets in the home. They always want to borrow my scarves and sweaters so that's when I decided they needed scarves of their own! And I was pointed in the right direction of a yarn/wool/fabric shop where I got new knitting needles and some wool!
Still, I cannot believe that I am here finally- getting onto the bus I nearly had to pinch myself, and the ride went by fast. It was a double decker bus and I sat on the top and got to reflect a bit about this adventure the past 5 months have had to offer. My first impression of this town and of this experience was that it brought me back to last summer and reminded me of Cass Lake, for a few reasons. Maybe it's because they are the only two small towns I have ever been in for an extended amount of time, but I sort of like the walk everywhere, empty streets, deserted town kind of feel. Or the fact that there is one other girl and two boys, kind of similar to a YW staff? And we play cards at night and share just a tiny space and yada yada, it's fun.
Well internet is expensive and I shouldn't be on for two long... so I will give you some highlights of the past 5 days...
I read bed time stories to kids every night. It was the first time I have done that in a long time, and I love it. And I love that they are interested in reading and I want to do all I can to see that they read more!
The first night I was here we took a walk around the neighborhood at night with the older kids. I got to dance and sing in the street with some of the girls and it was a great way to welcome in the first day of being here.
Some of the girls are singing all the time and one afternoon I was sitting in the girl's bedroom and they asked me to sing (which you are all aware that I am no good), but I did anyway, only after having them sing first. Now it's almost daily. I think I am going to start a 'silly songs with Stephanie' series after the "Go Bananas" song went over like a hit last night =).
These kids are truly kind of like a family, looking out for one another, taking care of eachother, picking on each other, sharing with one another. The older girls looking out for the little boys... the number of smiles here are unbelievable.
One afternoon I got to cuddle with some kids and watch Toy Story 2 (one of my FAVORITES) and then that night I even went to a dance at a church in a township with middleaged people and danced the night away! Entertaining way to spend a Friday.
In the kitchen the older boys like to listen to music, and one night I heard the Titanic song come on, you know the one, so I went in and taught one of the boys,Luke, how to dance. Then I taught him the Fox Trot and Waltz (Dawn, you would be proud!). I think I am going to download music for the Cha Cha Slide and Electric Slide, and maybe a square dance if possible! One of the volunteers said that he could get music off my iPod onto the computer, so then we can get some good ol honkeytonk country music and I can teach them a line dance! If I remember, I hope I remember.
I don't know what it is about being here, or the similarities to a mission trip but it just feels like there are a collection of things in my life that have lead up to and prepared me for this time and this moment and it just brings me such joy. I love spending the mornings in the office and thinking of ideas, it's just that the future of the organization, and more importantly the kids, is still so uncertain. But man, these kids are great.
Sure, time flies, but to watch the landscapes, the atmosphere, the people and the places change so rapidly and so fast... well, it's kind of exhilarating, but also a lot to take in. From a month ago, at the beginning of May to here, the beginning of June, to next month being home in the States at the beginning of July... As always trying to make the most of every moment, staying motivated and energized is essential. I am currently at the Dianne Lang Foundation, volunteering with around 30 children and becoming more aware of the day to day events of this aspect of South Africa. The thing is, the home is in a time of transition and uncertainty. The foundation is not a NPO, it has been ran off of private donations and funds from other people, but now it looks as if the funding is no longer there which leaves a lot of questions and changes in the very near future. There is a wonderful lady who has put in an application to become a Non-profit Organization and is still waiting to be approved by the government, but the outlook seems hopeful. Until then I get to play with kids all day, help paint buildings, maybe assist in building a fence (I guess it's a guy's project? Oh well, we put up 3 last summer =]), and knit scarves for all of the girls here. Can you believe that it gets below freezing in Middelburg? As I sit and type in the office, it's actually a tease that I can see the sun shining out the doors next to me as my hands are icy and my feet cold! But there is no heat here and the kids are always wearing their jackets and wrapped in blankets in the home. They always want to borrow my scarves and sweaters so that's when I decided they needed scarves of their own! And I was pointed in the right direction of a yarn/wool/fabric shop where I got new knitting needles and some wool!
Still, I cannot believe that I am here finally- getting onto the bus I nearly had to pinch myself, and the ride went by fast. It was a double decker bus and I sat on the top and got to reflect a bit about this adventure the past 5 months have had to offer. My first impression of this town and of this experience was that it brought me back to last summer and reminded me of Cass Lake, for a few reasons. Maybe it's because they are the only two small towns I have ever been in for an extended amount of time, but I sort of like the walk everywhere, empty streets, deserted town kind of feel. Or the fact that there is one other girl and two boys, kind of similar to a YW staff? And we play cards at night and share just a tiny space and yada yada, it's fun.
Well internet is expensive and I shouldn't be on for two long... so I will give you some highlights of the past 5 days...
I read bed time stories to kids every night. It was the first time I have done that in a long time, and I love it. And I love that they are interested in reading and I want to do all I can to see that they read more!
The first night I was here we took a walk around the neighborhood at night with the older kids. I got to dance and sing in the street with some of the girls and it was a great way to welcome in the first day of being here.
Some of the girls are singing all the time and one afternoon I was sitting in the girl's bedroom and they asked me to sing (which you are all aware that I am no good), but I did anyway, only after having them sing first. Now it's almost daily. I think I am going to start a 'silly songs with Stephanie' series after the "Go Bananas" song went over like a hit last night =).
These kids are truly kind of like a family, looking out for one another, taking care of eachother, picking on each other, sharing with one another. The older girls looking out for the little boys... the number of smiles here are unbelievable.
One afternoon I got to cuddle with some kids and watch Toy Story 2 (one of my FAVORITES) and then that night I even went to a dance at a church in a township with middleaged people and danced the night away! Entertaining way to spend a Friday.
In the kitchen the older boys like to listen to music, and one night I heard the Titanic song come on, you know the one, so I went in and taught one of the boys,Luke, how to dance. Then I taught him the Fox Trot and Waltz (Dawn, you would be proud!). I think I am going to download music for the Cha Cha Slide and Electric Slide, and maybe a square dance if possible! One of the volunteers said that he could get music off my iPod onto the computer, so then we can get some good ol honkeytonk country music and I can teach them a line dance! If I remember, I hope I remember.
I don't know what it is about being here, or the similarities to a mission trip but it just feels like there are a collection of things in my life that have lead up to and prepared me for this time and this moment and it just brings me such joy. I love spending the mornings in the office and thinking of ideas, it's just that the future of the organization, and more importantly the kids, is still so uncertain. But man, these kids are great.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Greyhound bound...
What a great day! I can’t even explain the feeling that I have right now, pure euphoria? Close enough either way! Amazing seeing as I woke up this morning at 5:30 to finish/start a presentation that I gave at 8:30, okay, 9h00, seeing as it if African time. Surprisingly I actually woke up and even more surprisingly, the presentation went swimmingly! It was on self-esteem and seemed to be a combination of millions of things I have learned in the past, so it rolled off the tongue like a well-known story. My new friends, Natalie, Bonnie and Moji were hard to say goodbye to after spending so much time stressed and worried and always laughing in our youth work classes. Bonnie wants to stay in touch so that she can visit the U.S., Moji has the calm and composure that many well lived 45 year olds would, and Natalie became a good friend in which we could share in daily stresses and always find laughter. She gave me a tour of the Res (dormitories) after class and we walked around, it was lovely! The morning was quite chilly, I even wore long sleeves and a sweatshirt! But by the walk back it was pretty hot. I picked up some last minute presents for the familia and arrived home!
So much to do, so little time::: as always! I cannot believe that in a matter of HOURS I will be in a completely different part of the country and in 24 hours be fully immersed at the Diane Lang Orphanage in Middelburg, South Africa. All this time it has felt as if it were too good to be true, that something was going to happen and the joy and experience would just slip through my fingers, but seeing as the bus tickets are within my reach, I have the cell number of the one who is picking me up and my bags are … ok my bags are not packed, but my list of what to pack is out and ready! I am enjoying one of the most uniquely delicious meals, the last of my milk with the box of Frosted Flakes, which I have been saving for a special occasion that my church sent me in a care package! Yummy!! The only down side to those little boxes is they are single serving and I don’t get to enjoy seconds! Today is going to be my first bus trip ever, and fittingly Miranda Lambert’s song came on my iPod this morning, “I’m on a greyhound bound for nowhere…” Couldn’t help but smile. I’ve heard from a few people that it’s chilly in Middelburg, so I’m glad I was warned so I can pack accordingly. I learned today that there are 2 million orphans in South Africa… wonder how that statistic will come to life over the next few weeks as that name is given a face, a story and names… and that will only be 40-50 children...
Well I'm off! I will update you if I have internet while I'm there, if not, mom and dad I will call you when I arrive, and Jessica I hope you have a safe trip home and a good last few days! Love you three, my trusty readers =)
So much to do, so little time::: as always! I cannot believe that in a matter of HOURS I will be in a completely different part of the country and in 24 hours be fully immersed at the Diane Lang Orphanage in Middelburg, South Africa. All this time it has felt as if it were too good to be true, that something was going to happen and the joy and experience would just slip through my fingers, but seeing as the bus tickets are within my reach, I have the cell number of the one who is picking me up and my bags are … ok my bags are not packed, but my list of what to pack is out and ready! I am enjoying one of the most uniquely delicious meals, the last of my milk with the box of Frosted Flakes, which I have been saving for a special occasion that my church sent me in a care package! Yummy!! The only down side to those little boxes is they are single serving and I don’t get to enjoy seconds! Today is going to be my first bus trip ever, and fittingly Miranda Lambert’s song came on my iPod this morning, “I’m on a greyhound bound for nowhere…” Couldn’t help but smile. I’ve heard from a few people that it’s chilly in Middelburg, so I’m glad I was warned so I can pack accordingly. I learned today that there are 2 million orphans in South Africa… wonder how that statistic will come to life over the next few weeks as that name is given a face, a story and names… and that will only be 40-50 children...
Well I'm off! I will update you if I have internet while I'm there, if not, mom and dad I will call you when I arrive, and Jessica I hope you have a safe trip home and a good last few days! Love you three, my trusty readers =)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
And I've had that song in my head all day...
I'm in a little bit of a reminiscing mood today... Perhaps it's because today I am going to try and sell my computer so I've been taking off all of my old pictures and putting them on CD's and same with deleting old papers and other random things. Never thought I'd be sad to see my sony go...? Guess it just reminds me of the first few years of college... and all those memories that are irreplaceable. So long ago, but really, not that long ago. Can't believe that when I go home from here I will be entering my last year of college. Seems like so many people are going places and doing things, it is so encouraging! It's kind of cool that at right now I have friends on every continent (unless my friend who was in Australia is home by now), but still, it's so exciting that so many people are going and traveling and seeing and experiencing! It is amazing, and while you want to enjoy each moment of where you are and what you're doing, a part of you (me) can't help but think about the future and weighing the options, after all, I'll be a college graduate a year from now.... (knock on wood).
But I do believe I owe you all a tiny bit of an update, seeing as it has been about two weeks. School is winding down, but as always, that just means more work. I have two final exams out of the way and am looking at two more exams, one big presentation, and one monster project that is kind of scary to think about. In a week I am going to be leaving for almost two weeks to go to a town called Middelburg and volunteer in an orphanage that they have there. Not sure if I have blogged about this yet or not, but I found the organization somehow online and got in contact with them and they said they have room for a volunteer in the beginning of June. The organization is run completely off of private donations, meaning no help from the government/country and they rely heavily on volunteers and can have up to six at a time. I was told to be prepared for a quick orientation upon arrival and then be given a schedule with a 40 hour work week. Now, months ago, I wouldn't think anything of a 40 hour work week, but since I have been here my work habits and my involvement has somehow slacked... seems like I took on the 'African time' and well, easiest way to say it: I became lazy. Now the laziness has brought with it guilt because as a Westerner I have the inner belief that we must work before play and essentially that play and enjoyment to the extent of what my time here has given me should have been worked for or earned, but seeing as though all areas that I attempted to busy myself with fell through... (getting in touch with a photographer, a youth group, a job? etc.) I have become accustomed to a few classes a week, few hours of work, then lots of walking and sunning and beaching and reading, which has been nice, but back to the point... I am very anxious and excited that there is real work on the future! I have a feeling that I will be thankful that I've spent 4 months prior in this environment and the culture and have seen things around South Africa that help with understanding the position at which the people in the Orphanage are in. Not to mention that I will have time to come back and process (nearly ten days after I return from the orphanage I fly home) because I think it will help with all the culture shocking and readjustment, again. All pretty exciting, eh? Encouraging to see things come together. Whoa, my stomach just did kind of a flip on itself when I realized a month from today I am flying out of South Africa... what? A month... mixed feelings.
So over the past few years I have developed this love for cities. And last summer I experienced a different kind of love and appreciation for small towns, in particular a Reservation for me, but needless to say I have grown fond of looking at communities and cultures, and who knows, that might direct me somewhere in the future, or a multitude of other things might... but if I could stay on track for two seconds I might be able to get out that, as in any town, Port Elizabeth is filled with different areas of town and different suburbs alike, and just like any semi-major city, has a down town area (small towns have more of a 'main street' down town type of feel, even Mankato). I live in Summerstrand (you might know this if you wrote me letters) and it is close to the university and also the ocean. It is kind of seen as a more upscale, compared to other areas. We volunteer in Walmer, in particular the Walmer Township, the mall is in Greenacres, There is another area called Humewood, you get the point. But there is also a downtown part too, known as Central. Upon arrival we heard different stories, sure you can go; but go in a big group, or only go during the day, typical warnings to tourists. But am I considered a tourist if I have lived here for four months? We go to school for four-five month periods in different cities, often times different states, sure it might be a different area code or region of the states, but it is your home, and you wouldn't question that. So, Port Elizabeth has become my home. I know where to get the freshest produce, the best bread, even the cutest shoes and definitely the best dresses at the mall. I know my way around through transportation systems or driving on the roads. So I think essentially it is kind of silly that we were so scared or timid to go into Central, not to be naive, we are young women and are aware of our surroundings... Everyone talked about how it was dangerous, but as soon as I got there, all I could think about was how beautiful it was.. I loved it.
Now, it wasn't a booming downtown Metropolis by any eans, but it held a unique beauty that was captivating all on it's own. There was a misty glow radiating from the faces and the shops, one that only an outsider like myself would see and appreciate- because that's the type of community my heart looks for and wishes to see. Sure, construction in the streets was loud, the congestion on the streets were tight and it wasn't picturesque by any means, but it held it's own kind of mystery. Friends were uniting all around and making deals at small stands selling cheap knock offs and small candies. Walking around we definitely stood out, but it was then that I came to a fun realization: I am not a tourist. No, right now I live here.. not quite a local, but a regular. Somewhere along the way I've slowly 'learned the ropes' or the 'lay of the land,' and the thought was empowering. I thought to myself: I can handle this. And I couldn't help to think I can't wait to do this again... in another community, another place and location, possibly another country. Why travel to just be a tourist when you can live to become a regular? Don't get me wrong, I'm not so naive to thinkthat I can walk into anywhere and pitch a tent, set up camp and label it home... but the past three years of my life I have had 2 to 3 to 4 to 5 month homes... in a sense this is the longest I have lived in the same place since high school, because I have been here longer than both fall and spring semesters by the time I leave... Now we may be more confused, or is it more clarity... because it's all so simple? Ah, simple, beautiful, peaceful... Mind boggling eh?
As always, I wrote too long. Still want to leave you with another thought...
I have even found through the past year an a half of my life that if I tell people what my goals are, they can help hold me accountable and make sure that it happens (and I would love to do the same for you, just throw me a list and I'll call ya every day =]) So here is a random list of things I've been thinking of that I cannot wait to do when I get home...
I want to...
1. Retake up scrapbooking when I come home.
2. Make my own curtains for my bedroom in my apartment (and might need an aunts help in the process).
3. Make my own dress and a purse (at least one of each).
4. Read a book a week.
5. Take a picture a day
6. Write more letters
7. Find an internship in the spring (Urban Studies..?)
But I do believe I owe you all a tiny bit of an update, seeing as it has been about two weeks. School is winding down, but as always, that just means more work. I have two final exams out of the way and am looking at two more exams, one big presentation, and one monster project that is kind of scary to think about. In a week I am going to be leaving for almost two weeks to go to a town called Middelburg and volunteer in an orphanage that they have there. Not sure if I have blogged about this yet or not, but I found the organization somehow online and got in contact with them and they said they have room for a volunteer in the beginning of June. The organization is run completely off of private donations, meaning no help from the government/country and they rely heavily on volunteers and can have up to six at a time. I was told to be prepared for a quick orientation upon arrival and then be given a schedule with a 40 hour work week. Now, months ago, I wouldn't think anything of a 40 hour work week, but since I have been here my work habits and my involvement has somehow slacked... seems like I took on the 'African time' and well, easiest way to say it: I became lazy. Now the laziness has brought with it guilt because as a Westerner I have the inner belief that we must work before play and essentially that play and enjoyment to the extent of what my time here has given me should have been worked for or earned, but seeing as though all areas that I attempted to busy myself with fell through... (getting in touch with a photographer, a youth group, a job? etc.) I have become accustomed to a few classes a week, few hours of work, then lots of walking and sunning and beaching and reading, which has been nice, but back to the point... I am very anxious and excited that there is real work on the future! I have a feeling that I will be thankful that I've spent 4 months prior in this environment and the culture and have seen things around South Africa that help with understanding the position at which the people in the Orphanage are in. Not to mention that I will have time to come back and process (nearly ten days after I return from the orphanage I fly home) because I think it will help with all the culture shocking and readjustment, again. All pretty exciting, eh? Encouraging to see things come together. Whoa, my stomach just did kind of a flip on itself when I realized a month from today I am flying out of South Africa... what? A month... mixed feelings.
So over the past few years I have developed this love for cities. And last summer I experienced a different kind of love and appreciation for small towns, in particular a Reservation for me, but needless to say I have grown fond of looking at communities and cultures, and who knows, that might direct me somewhere in the future, or a multitude of other things might... but if I could stay on track for two seconds I might be able to get out that, as in any town, Port Elizabeth is filled with different areas of town and different suburbs alike, and just like any semi-major city, has a down town area (small towns have more of a 'main street' down town type of feel, even Mankato). I live in Summerstrand (you might know this if you wrote me letters) and it is close to the university and also the ocean. It is kind of seen as a more upscale, compared to other areas. We volunteer in Walmer, in particular the Walmer Township, the mall is in Greenacres, There is another area called Humewood, you get the point. But there is also a downtown part too, known as Central. Upon arrival we heard different stories, sure you can go; but go in a big group, or only go during the day, typical warnings to tourists. But am I considered a tourist if I have lived here for four months? We go to school for four-five month periods in different cities, often times different states, sure it might be a different area code or region of the states, but it is your home, and you wouldn't question that. So, Port Elizabeth has become my home. I know where to get the freshest produce, the best bread, even the cutest shoes and definitely the best dresses at the mall. I know my way around through transportation systems or driving on the roads. So I think essentially it is kind of silly that we were so scared or timid to go into Central, not to be naive, we are young women and are aware of our surroundings... Everyone talked about how it was dangerous, but as soon as I got there, all I could think about was how beautiful it was.. I loved it.
Now, it wasn't a booming downtown Metropolis by any eans, but it held a unique beauty that was captivating all on it's own. There was a misty glow radiating from the faces and the shops, one that only an outsider like myself would see and appreciate- because that's the type of community my heart looks for and wishes to see. Sure, construction in the streets was loud, the congestion on the streets were tight and it wasn't picturesque by any means, but it held it's own kind of mystery. Friends were uniting all around and making deals at small stands selling cheap knock offs and small candies. Walking around we definitely stood out, but it was then that I came to a fun realization: I am not a tourist. No, right now I live here.. not quite a local, but a regular. Somewhere along the way I've slowly 'learned the ropes' or the 'lay of the land,' and the thought was empowering. I thought to myself: I can handle this. And I couldn't help to think I can't wait to do this again... in another community, another place and location, possibly another country. Why travel to just be a tourist when you can live to become a regular? Don't get me wrong, I'm not so naive to thinkthat I can walk into anywhere and pitch a tent, set up camp and label it home... but the past three years of my life I have had 2 to 3 to 4 to 5 month homes... in a sense this is the longest I have lived in the same place since high school, because I have been here longer than both fall and spring semesters by the time I leave... Now we may be more confused, or is it more clarity... because it's all so simple? Ah, simple, beautiful, peaceful... Mind boggling eh?
As always, I wrote too long. Still want to leave you with another thought...
I have even found through the past year an a half of my life that if I tell people what my goals are, they can help hold me accountable and make sure that it happens (and I would love to do the same for you, just throw me a list and I'll call ya every day =]) So here is a random list of things I've been thinking of that I cannot wait to do when I get home...
I want to...
1. Retake up scrapbooking when I come home.
2. Make my own curtains for my bedroom in my apartment (and might need an aunts help in the process).
3. Make my own dress and a purse (at least one of each).
4. Read a book a week.
5. Take a picture a day
6. Write more letters
7. Find an internship in the spring (Urban Studies..?)
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Sometimes we rock and sometimes we roll
I just wanted to dance on the beach for you =) So I kind of took today as a personal day so to speak. I just sort of walked around, without an agenda, heading wherever I felt lead. It was nice, relaxing, and in a way inspirational. I felt lighter hearted and more joy than I have in awhile. It was like flowers that had been beautiful before were multiplied and everywhere I looked I could just soak in the sun, feel the warmth and breathe in beauty coming from all directions.
My journey lead me to the ocean, of course, a place that is beautiful in any place, any climate, and wonderous any time of day. It is only right that as I'm writing this blog My Wish (Rascal Flatts) is playing in the background. Ah, may all your dreams stay big...
In all reality, living in a place that is surrounded by natural beauty, such as this, it's amazing I could ever go a day without that feeling.
Now this is a stretch... but in some way, I don't think I would have come to South Africa if I hadn't been in Cass Lake this past summer. Now there are numerous of other places I was looking at, and going to Africa didn't seriously cross my mind until a certain conversation (Preeti), but regardless, the more I think about it the more I believe it's true. I could just say it gave me confidence, but really I believe it gave me new eyes. It made me a bit more aware of my surroundings. And even if it is my desire to always be happy go lucky, always see the bright side and just focus on the positives, my summer made me aware of conflict and tension and that there is a division and people don't always see things in the same light that you do. You see the looks people give one another... you see who is on what side of the street. You cant help but notice who goes to what cook out, what church and who goes where. You hear it in the tone- and right or wrong no longer becomes the question, but the tables are turned and the weight is on the response. Intense, but so real. It becomes aware which side is more welcoming, in our case which side of the school likes you more than the other, but still that doesn't stop you from showing and expressing the same love and same care across the board.
....Some how, I feel like I am exactly where I am supposed to be..
This is Odwa and I dancing at Learn for Life. Since it was Cinco de Mayo, we thought it would be the perfect chance to introduce some spanish, some chips and dip, and of course Salsa dancing. Shocker:: they actually LOVED dancing! It was a really fun night.
Right now I am organizing my photos from my old computer.. I'm just worried that I didn't do my back up hard drive right and I'm worried I might lose some. I'm not sure where my addiction to pictures comes from, but I just can't help it. I love it. I absolutely ridiculously love pictres. Many and all forms. Of people and of places. Ones that spell everything out, are captivationg, tell a story.. all the way to those that creat feelings inside you didn't know you had, or forgot you had. From walking down the street and snapping a shot to going to an exhibit or opening a book. From huge billboards to old photo albums.. the stories and the memories are countless, timeless, endless. Can be more powerfuland cause more change than anyone could imagine.
I think this is the photo from our hike that I wanted to print last time, but for some reason it didn't work.I think I've used up all my words for today.
Peace and Love!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Well Hello Stranger!
Let's talk about culture.
There are three main languages that you will most likely hear here in Port Elizabeth:: Xhosa (the clicking language ..pronounced something like 'clickhosa' -ask me when I get home, I'll do my best), Afrikaans (that is very closely related to Dutch, due to the Dutch who settled in South Africa a few hundred years ago), and English, from the English settlers that came just in the past 150 odd years.
This past weekend 4 of my good friends and I ventured up to Coffee Bay, about an hours drive away from a developed town (8 hours from PE), in the remote areas of SA, along the coast. We entered a new terrain that I hadn't experienced yet since being here. Coffee Bay is known for its peaceful nature, small tribes and just a few backpackers set up along the ocean to attract travelers to their peaceful quarters. Upon arrival we saw huts painted brightly pinks and greens, clothes hanging on the line and children running about, waving to each passing cars. While swerving between huge pot holes the last 70 kms we were able to enjoy the Wild Coast's top five animals: Cows, horses, goats, sheep and chickens, everywhere!
Excited to reach our destination we headed to the beach. Then, after soaking up a few rays we headed up to the showers and got ready for our adventure for the night. A few highlights were eating in the Xhosa village, which entailed trying the traditional homemade Xhosa beer... had a bit of a corn taste and was quite bitter to the taste. We were served it from a big 5 gallon jug and passed around big pitchers that we drank out of. We had a rice type of food with cabbage and a sauce that I thought was delicious. Then we had another type of pea/corn meal (there were two vegetarians in our group) and watched a few of the women from the village dance. We had an interesting almost hour of conversation, question/answer time period that was extremely informative. A few that stuck out to me was that I asked if anyone ever left the village.. you know, went to college or moved away to get another job or anything, and the reaction was almost surprise at such a question. Another fact that caught me off guard was that their number one job or means of employment and income there was tourism... Now there were 4/5 ladies who had their beaded jewelry hanging out right outside our backpackers, came up to us along the beach and followed us a bit, as well as children... there were kids who we were advised not to give money or sweets to (no dentist) unless they did something, like sing a song or a dance then we could give them a tip or take some of the travelers on a guided tour. Coffee Bay is a decently small place: 4 shops including a small convenient store that I don't really have a comparison for, a place to buy drums, a tshirt and jewelry place, then a craft post that was just about the same as the beads the ladies sold. Then there was also a pizza place we ate at Saturday night (delicious!), two backpackers, and maybe two other hotels... the farming that was done around there was done just for themselves... different, but beautiful. Their homes were built out of clay and after the bricks are put together and the straw for the roof is ready it only takes about a week to construct. They use manure on the ground and just have one room to be the living room, bedroom and kitchen. Something else that is interesting is that there isn't electricity. Not that the area isn't developed enough, because it is. But about 5 or 8 years ago there was someone who was really pushing for that area to get electricity, but those stubborn elders in the community, they decided to say no. Surprisingly, there was cell phone reception!
The next day we had an awesome tour guide who just loved us and about 30 others! and we went on a four hour hike to the 'hole in the wall' ...a natural hole that was created in the wall from the ocean!
Well, that took about an hour and a half to upload, hopefully it will all get uploaded and you can see an enjoy!
Possibly more later, depends how productive I am =)
Let's talk about culture.
There are three main languages that you will most likely hear here in Port Elizabeth:: Xhosa (the clicking language ..pronounced something like 'clickhosa' -ask me when I get home, I'll do my best), Afrikaans (that is very closely related to Dutch, due to the Dutch who settled in South Africa a few hundred years ago), and English, from the English settlers that came just in the past 150 odd years.
This past weekend 4 of my good friends and I ventured up to Coffee Bay, about an hours drive away from a developed town (8 hours from PE), in the remote areas of SA, along the coast. We entered a new terrain that I hadn't experienced yet since being here. Coffee Bay is known for its peaceful nature, small tribes and just a few backpackers set up along the ocean to attract travelers to their peaceful quarters. Upon arrival we saw huts painted brightly pinks and greens, clothes hanging on the line and children running about, waving to each passing cars. While swerving between huge pot holes the last 70 kms we were able to enjoy the Wild Coast's top five animals: Cows, horses, goats, sheep and chickens, everywhere!
Excited to reach our destination we headed to the beach. Then, after soaking up a few rays we headed up to the showers and got ready for our adventure for the night. A few highlights were eating in the Xhosa village, which entailed trying the traditional homemade Xhosa beer... had a bit of a corn taste and was quite bitter to the taste. We were served it from a big 5 gallon jug and passed around big pitchers that we drank out of. We had a rice type of food with cabbage and a sauce that I thought was delicious. Then we had another type of pea/corn meal (there were two vegetarians in our group) and watched a few of the women from the village dance. We had an interesting almost hour of conversation, question/answer time period that was extremely informative. A few that stuck out to me was that I asked if anyone ever left the village.. you know, went to college or moved away to get another job or anything, and the reaction was almost surprise at such a question. Another fact that caught me off guard was that their number one job or means of employment and income there was tourism... Now there were 4/5 ladies who had their beaded jewelry hanging out right outside our backpackers, came up to us along the beach and followed us a bit, as well as children... there were kids who we were advised not to give money or sweets to (no dentist) unless they did something, like sing a song or a dance then we could give them a tip or take some of the travelers on a guided tour. Coffee Bay is a decently small place: 4 shops including a small convenient store that I don't really have a comparison for, a place to buy drums, a tshirt and jewelry place, then a craft post that was just about the same as the beads the ladies sold. Then there was also a pizza place we ate at Saturday night (delicious!), two backpackers, and maybe two other hotels... the farming that was done around there was done just for themselves... different, but beautiful. Their homes were built out of clay and after the bricks are put together and the straw for the roof is ready it only takes about a week to construct. They use manure on the ground and just have one room to be the living room, bedroom and kitchen. Something else that is interesting is that there isn't electricity. Not that the area isn't developed enough, because it is. But about 5 or 8 years ago there was someone who was really pushing for that area to get electricity, but those stubborn elders in the community, they decided to say no. Surprisingly, there was cell phone reception!
The next day we had an awesome tour guide who just loved us and about 30 others! and we went on a four hour hike to the 'hole in the wall' ...a natural hole that was created in the wall from the ocean!
Well, that took about an hour and a half to upload, hopefully it will all get uploaded and you can see an enjoy!
Possibly more later, depends how productive I am =)
Sunday, April 26, 2009
This Little Light of Mine
What a relaxing weekend! It's been quite some time that I've had a weekend that didn't have it's own agenda, it's own list and it's own priorities that needed to be met before the following week, or crammed in between traveling and all the joys that come along with that. I think I had let the simple pleasures of enjoying a beautiful day slip past me between planning trips or even just going at such a fast pace.. this slower tempo is a nice change and I am enjoying it. If you know anything about me and my study habits, you know that I normally don't begin a paper, or start to study, till the very last minute possible, and for some reason even though my 12 page paper had an extension, I still couldn't pull myself to start it until, brace yourself, the day it was due. Oops! But as I finished it up and handed it in, the fun began for the weekend. Friday I went to one of the shopping malls here and found my new favorite shop to buy dresses (I bought two!). Then it was a girls night out for dinner which is always fun. One of my flatmates Ashley is actually moving out on Monday, which is so soon, and so sad! And now I'm under two months left of being here. It's a long time and a very short time all at the same time. When people used to ask us how long we were here to we could say, 4 more months! Or we've only been here one month, two months, now we are just at three months. Wow, I do wish it was longer. I mean I love you all and definitely miss your faces and have loads to be excited for when I come home (honestly, sometimes I catch myself getting so excited about the things to come this summer that I can't wait!) but there is still so much left to do. And with all my school work picking up, and now almost my entire month of June booked (I'll tell you about that later) it hardly feels like enough time. But have no fear, my list of places to go and people to see around the world is continuing to grow! Ahhh I love it!
So I understand that I am very far behind on my blogs... I never got to express how much fun it is to road trip across South Africa, but there was a moment this past week that I want to share with you all. You see, Tuesday nights are the nights that I, along with three other American students, go into the Walmer Township and teach. The focus is supposed to be different life lessons and sometimes we do have a bit of a communication barrier. Not knowing what it's like to be a 4th grader growing up in a township in SA kind of puts a limit on some of our knowledge of their background, but it is a give and take relationship, and even Katrin, the German intern kind of in charge of the program, is growing on me. It could be tough work and long days with those rowdy kids. The idea behind the Masfunde Organization is to invest in these children long term. They started with 3rd graders, then the next year they had both 3rd and 4th graders, then 3rd, 4th and 5th graders because they are keeping the same youth over time so that it becomes a steady area of their life where they can be educated, encouraged and grow. Pretty cool right? So before our two weeks off for break and a long Easter weekend, we sat down with Katrin and tried, or attempted might be a better word, to find common ground on the next lessons we would be planning. Instead of short term topics, it was decided that a more beneficial way to approach teaching these lessons would be to have multiple weeks on the same topic. So Katrin wanted to do a global cultures, and figure out a way for them to learn about other countries around the world. Not only that, but do the research and learn how to present, and a whole other list of things we don't need to get into. So meeting the night before, our group figured out what we were going to plan... we decided to have the kids make travel logs, so they can track where they are learning, write down all of the interesting facts and have a record of their new information. We also wanted to give them an idea of the importance and significance of traveling so we brought in pictures that each of us, as their teachers, had been and brought in a computer so they could watch a slide show of it.
Now, one of the biggest problems that I have noticed with the children is that they look for the easy way out. When we painted murals a few weeks ago they couldn't work together or grasp the concept that we wanted them to look good, and they had time so to take their time on it. They didn't do a very good job of sharing or investing time into any of their work and we as the teachers left feeling extremely frustrated and just kind of let down. We had spent a lot of time preparing and they didn't care at all. Discussing this, we kind of realized that it is a common trait for the kids to not put much effort into anything, they see an easy route and take it. They haven't done anything in our class that they could actually be proud of, so when we sat down to make the travel logs I made it very clear that this project was going to be different. I stressed that each page needed to be folded perfectly, and they were going to be using them the next 6 weeks and that you could decorate the cover how ever you wanted... and it worked! All 11 of them sat almost silently working for the first 5-10 minutes, and as always when that happens, my favorite part of Learn4Life happens, they start singing. It is usually one Simma, one of the louder, bolder girls, who doesn't look up from her work, but she will quietly start humming and then the humming will grow a little bit louder, then the other girls will catch on to the tune and join in singing "...this little light of mine.." and then pretty soon 9 or 10 of them are all singing This Little Light of Mine...
And then I feel bad for being worked up about all of those other silly things because that moment right there just melts my heart...
I really do love those kids. I hope they are able to see all the potential they have.
More later =)
So I understand that I am very far behind on my blogs... I never got to express how much fun it is to road trip across South Africa, but there was a moment this past week that I want to share with you all. You see, Tuesday nights are the nights that I, along with three other American students, go into the Walmer Township and teach. The focus is supposed to be different life lessons and sometimes we do have a bit of a communication barrier. Not knowing what it's like to be a 4th grader growing up in a township in SA kind of puts a limit on some of our knowledge of their background, but it is a give and take relationship, and even Katrin, the German intern kind of in charge of the program, is growing on me. It could be tough work and long days with those rowdy kids. The idea behind the Masfunde Organization is to invest in these children long term. They started with 3rd graders, then the next year they had both 3rd and 4th graders, then 3rd, 4th and 5th graders because they are keeping the same youth over time so that it becomes a steady area of their life where they can be educated, encouraged and grow. Pretty cool right? So before our two weeks off for break and a long Easter weekend, we sat down with Katrin and tried, or attempted might be a better word, to find common ground on the next lessons we would be planning. Instead of short term topics, it was decided that a more beneficial way to approach teaching these lessons would be to have multiple weeks on the same topic. So Katrin wanted to do a global cultures, and figure out a way for them to learn about other countries around the world. Not only that, but do the research and learn how to present, and a whole other list of things we don't need to get into. So meeting the night before, our group figured out what we were going to plan... we decided to have the kids make travel logs, so they can track where they are learning, write down all of the interesting facts and have a record of their new information. We also wanted to give them an idea of the importance and significance of traveling so we brought in pictures that each of us, as their teachers, had been and brought in a computer so they could watch a slide show of it.
Now, one of the biggest problems that I have noticed with the children is that they look for the easy way out. When we painted murals a few weeks ago they couldn't work together or grasp the concept that we wanted them to look good, and they had time so to take their time on it. They didn't do a very good job of sharing or investing time into any of their work and we as the teachers left feeling extremely frustrated and just kind of let down. We had spent a lot of time preparing and they didn't care at all. Discussing this, we kind of realized that it is a common trait for the kids to not put much effort into anything, they see an easy route and take it. They haven't done anything in our class that they could actually be proud of, so when we sat down to make the travel logs I made it very clear that this project was going to be different. I stressed that each page needed to be folded perfectly, and they were going to be using them the next 6 weeks and that you could decorate the cover how ever you wanted... and it worked! All 11 of them sat almost silently working for the first 5-10 minutes, and as always when that happens, my favorite part of Learn4Life happens, they start singing. It is usually one Simma, one of the louder, bolder girls, who doesn't look up from her work, but she will quietly start humming and then the humming will grow a little bit louder, then the other girls will catch on to the tune and join in singing "...this little light of mine.." and then pretty soon 9 or 10 of them are all singing This Little Light of Mine...
And then I feel bad for being worked up about all of those other silly things because that moment right there just melts my heart...
I really do love those kids. I hope they are able to see all the potential they have.
More later =)
Saturday, April 18, 2009
To some, it's just a picture. To others, it's so much more..
Pictures hardly do the sites justice, nor words, but now at least there is somewhat of a vision to the stories.
This is all of us girls at the 'southern most tip of Africa' -we got there just in time for the sunset! It was beautiful. It's called Cape of Good Hope.
This is me, Sam, Kari and Matt after a day on the ocean fishing with just a few of the fish we caught!
The ostrich that attacked us in Cinsta on our first game drive!
This is Malin and Stephanie modeling outside of our cabin in Cinsta, overlooking the beautiful view behind is the sandy beaches and beautiful ocean. Next we are standing on the 'cliff' overlooking the countryside, way in the mountains, hours away from PE... 
This is the beach that we climbed to in Kenton on a day adventure.
wild horse! there were so many of them, not sure if they were actually wild, but they seemed to be running and roaming free.
Night time at the Ocean Front in Cape Town. Just like the way the lights were captured.
Who knows where else this adventure might lead...
I suppose a question we must all ask of ourselves at some point, is what exactly will we remember? Is it the people or the places? The sound of movement, unique to each area or the taste of new food? When we learn to appreciate the beauty of the art woven in and around us, maybe then we can learn value. And not just value, but what we value. Maybe we never truly learn anything ourself, it just shows up- appears through the tears and the laughter, the joy and the hurt that makes up our own piece of work. We are always in the process of creating and forming, molding and growing- strung together loosely, yet sturdy. Oh the joy.
"Each of us is an artist, capable of conceiving and creating a vision from the depths of our being." -Dorothy Fadiman
Oh, PS...
This is all of us girls at the 'southern most tip of Africa' -we got there just in time for the sunset! It was beautiful. It's called Cape of Good Hope.
This is me, Sam, Kari and Matt after a day on the ocean fishing with just a few of the fish we caught!
The ostrich that attacked us in Cinsta on our first game drive!
This is Malin and Stephanie modeling outside of our cabin in Cinsta, overlooking the beautiful view behind is the sandy beaches and beautiful ocean. Next we are standing on the 'cliff' overlooking the countryside, way in the mountains, hours away from PE... 
This is the beach that we climbed to in Kenton on a day adventure. 
wild horse! there were so many of them, not sure if they were actually wild, but they seemed to be running and roaming free. 
Night time at the Ocean Front in Cape Town. Just like the way the lights were captured.
Who knows where else this adventure might lead... I suppose a question we must all ask of ourselves at some point, is what exactly will we remember? Is it the people or the places? The sound of movement, unique to each area or the taste of new food? When we learn to appreciate the beauty of the art woven in and around us, maybe then we can learn value. And not just value, but what we value. Maybe we never truly learn anything ourself, it just shows up- appears through the tears and the laughter, the joy and the hurt that makes up our own piece of work. We are always in the process of creating and forming, molding and growing- strung together loosely, yet sturdy. Oh the joy.
"Each of us is an artist, capable of conceiving and creating a vision from the depths of our being." -Dorothy Fadiman
Oh, PS...
A little drive by shooting...
... Pictures of the view from hiking up Groendal, pictures from driving through the clouds to the top of the mountain, pictures of a few animals just passing through...
No big, just zebras grazing...
Since uploading photos is so much fun, I am going to keep going! The one is of Kari and I on the beaches along Kenton when we went hiking, same with the one overlooking the water. The other one is Malin and I (wearing pink), getting ready for a fun filled night. The other one with the 4 girls is me and my roommates: Ashlie, Mirum and Ellen.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
lets get lucky....
I want you to know the beauty too...
An interesting trait to South Africa, or Africa in general, is the chance of the power going out. It can come any time, any day, with or without warning (has happened 3 times and still have not been warned..) and that happened yesterday around 3:30. We prepay our electricity, so my first thought was that the electricity was out, but oh hello, it was time for the power to go out for another stretch, this time for an 18 hour stretch. Oh the joys. My biggest concern was not showering in the dark or being in total darkness in our huts, rather it was the food I had just bought! I think it will be ok though =)
Today we are lucky and the internet seems to be working well, so I'm going to try uploading some pics...
This first picture is from when I flew a couple weeks ago, looking down at one of the stadiums being built for the 2010 World Cup taking place in cities across South Africa.
The pilot and I. I just wanted you to see what we flew in! 
Me looking dorky on top of the mountain! I don't know if you can tell, but it was a great view! It was the weekend of our Frontier Farms where 10 varsity students went and we got up the mountain by riding in the back of pick ups- standing up.
Us girls and our new friends. This was an amazing restaurant we ate at in Stellenbosch (wine country) that one of our waitresses earlier in the trip suggested. We were greeted by people in traditional dress and guided through outside canopy and tree top seating. The menue was buffet, but the service first class. They came and painted our faces, performed the entire night then came over and sang us all a song in Xhosa. I tried ostrich meat, ox tail, dudu, lamb, venisen, springbok and cajun chicken, as well as three types of fish. ...Pretty sure I tried all the desserts ;)
This is us girls at the secret waterfall we canoed to in Wilderness. Beware... though it may look beautiful, there were secret tiny leeches when you touched the waterfall! 
When we got into Cape Town we went on a township tour. It was last minute planning, but one of the most beneficial decisions we made. It changes your perception when you learn a lot about the past and history that makes up a nation from people who lived it. This Bed & Breakfast (in case you can't tell) was pioneered by a lady named Vicky who thought- why not have a bed and breakfast in the township? We got to talk to her and take a tour of the place.
This is Nelson Mandela's jail cell where he was locked up on Robben Island. 
The Beautiful Greek Orthodox church that we stayed at one night. It was in Robertson, in between Oudtshoorn and after Mossel Bay, but before we headed on to Stellenbosch. Pastor Zacharius was amazing and we all loved staying there! It was one of the best nights sleep all trip.
These are the fresh water pools that we swam in when we went with mountain club. This is the first one we came to and we could even drink the water it was so fresh! We swam through about 10 on that hike. Such a good day!
"Everything in Africa Bites" -Winnie
Remember one of the rules that I learned while traveling from the very first post? Patience! Still learning more about that every day. I figured that since I started, I might as well finish… I’m going to start this blog off with what I wanted to say before I left! So I’ll start with what I already typed, then see where it goes from there =) So this would be…
2 April 2009.
I am very much so a last minute type of person. I wonder if that will ever change. While I am out and while I am traveling I think of all of these things I want to say, points I want to make, moments I want to remember so that later on I am able to share them, then I take so long in actually doing it! Needless to say it is the night before we leave for our big ten-day road trip across South Africa, and here I am finally sitting down to write the blog that should have been done days ago!
I’m pretty excited for this spring break. Three and a half other girls and I rented a car and we are going to drive across the Garden Route to Cape Town, taking our time and stopping off here and there to site see and be typical tourists. The three girls are Tara, Lisa and Kari. Ironically they are all from Minnesota! (Which I will appreciate later on when its only a couple hours to travel to see each other next year!). The half is Hilary (also from MN). She is coming along for the first 3 or 4 days, then meeting her parents and hooking up with them and heading back towards PE. Some highlights should be: going caving, shark diving, table mountain, Robben Island and then the high adventure-like activities such as kloofing and abseiling… more details on that later (when I know what they are as well!)
Now lets backtrack…
Where to start? Once again I am always the person with the most bug bites, not something to run home sharing but I’d say there are about 20 on my legs! The itching and scratching is worth it though, this past weekend was known as Frontier Farm Weekend. Loading up into a bus with Shaddly as our driver, Monalisa in the front, and 10 varsity students eager to see what adventures lie ahead we set off toward the mountains, truly not knowing what we were getting ourselves into.
About three hours later we were greeted by the most energetic, hospital, warm and friendly lady named Winnie. Winnie and Marness went out of their way in hospitality making our stay amazing. Their unique, up beat, giving personalities put the icing on the cake. On the farm was a baby Kudu that I got to watch get fed. It was semi locked up, with only a sheep. The Kudu hadn’t seen the sun yet or any outside animals outside the shed it was in. Marness went inside in the morning and at night and fed it warm milk from a 2 liter bottle… can you imagine the transition the Kudu will have to go through when it realizes how many other animals are out there, or what the sun or daylight or anything looks like? Hopefully it’ll be ok!
They also have a baby dike (jack rabbit kind of thing) named Christmas. I tried Biltong (beef jerky –kinda). Do I even need to mention how much I love the individualized warm and welcoming homes?? Winnie had lots of antiques of sppons, plates, tea cups, chickens on pots and some sweet wicker lamps. I love it!
Saturday I woke up to the clucks of the chickens, the crow of the rooster, even the moos of the cows (sounds pretty country, eh?) and got to go milk cows, ride a horse bareback! Then road a horse all around their farmland. Driving through the mountains we saw lots of sheep, impalas, wild horses and more deer-like animals. Riding in the back of the Toyota trucks, only metal bars to hold on to, our trusty guides took us to a cliff and overlook where we would be going and swimming in a break in the rocks. The view was magnificent! The icy water was quite a refreshing break from the heat of the day! The area was called the ‘jail’ because of the narrow river, high mountains and there being no way to climb out. After a relaxing afternoon of tennis and laying around, we had an amazing supper and then headed out on a nighttime game drive in their truck which was amazing!
We drove through the clouds on Sunday to get to the top of the mountains. They reported that on a clear day you can see all the way to Grahmstown (an hour and half from PE) and sometimes even to Port Elizabeth. It was about an hour jot to the top and the view was amazing. Ah, it was so great!
It was an educating weekend. Got to learn more about small town atmospheres, hear first hand from Winnie the effects of living in such a secluded area, running a farm and the monopoly of a market that is created in small mountainous towns. I got to hear more about the culture and how they have workers who live on their farm and raise their children on the farm. It was really interesting. Not sure if I could ever be cut out for the farm type, who am I kidding, I am not cut out to be the farm type, but props to them!
I also want to mention that the Thursday before that weekend my friend took me and another friend flying! It was amazing. I actually flew over the same mountains and dams and area that we were in the next day. It was beautiful seeing southern South Africa from the air. We were in a tiny ¾ person plane and were up for about 2 hours. Circling around we came back by the ocean and flew over about 200 dolphins! Isn’t life amazing? Who would have thought I’d ever get to experience beauty like this…
2 April 2009.
I am very much so a last minute type of person. I wonder if that will ever change. While I am out and while I am traveling I think of all of these things I want to say, points I want to make, moments I want to remember so that later on I am able to share them, then I take so long in actually doing it! Needless to say it is the night before we leave for our big ten-day road trip across South Africa, and here I am finally sitting down to write the blog that should have been done days ago!
I’m pretty excited for this spring break. Three and a half other girls and I rented a car and we are going to drive across the Garden Route to Cape Town, taking our time and stopping off here and there to site see and be typical tourists. The three girls are Tara, Lisa and Kari. Ironically they are all from Minnesota! (Which I will appreciate later on when its only a couple hours to travel to see each other next year!). The half is Hilary (also from MN). She is coming along for the first 3 or 4 days, then meeting her parents and hooking up with them and heading back towards PE. Some highlights should be: going caving, shark diving, table mountain, Robben Island and then the high adventure-like activities such as kloofing and abseiling… more details on that later (when I know what they are as well!)
Now lets backtrack…
Where to start? Once again I am always the person with the most bug bites, not something to run home sharing but I’d say there are about 20 on my legs! The itching and scratching is worth it though, this past weekend was known as Frontier Farm Weekend. Loading up into a bus with Shaddly as our driver, Monalisa in the front, and 10 varsity students eager to see what adventures lie ahead we set off toward the mountains, truly not knowing what we were getting ourselves into.
About three hours later we were greeted by the most energetic, hospital, warm and friendly lady named Winnie. Winnie and Marness went out of their way in hospitality making our stay amazing. Their unique, up beat, giving personalities put the icing on the cake. On the farm was a baby Kudu that I got to watch get fed. It was semi locked up, with only a sheep. The Kudu hadn’t seen the sun yet or any outside animals outside the shed it was in. Marness went inside in the morning and at night and fed it warm milk from a 2 liter bottle… can you imagine the transition the Kudu will have to go through when it realizes how many other animals are out there, or what the sun or daylight or anything looks like? Hopefully it’ll be ok!
They also have a baby dike (jack rabbit kind of thing) named Christmas. I tried Biltong (beef jerky –kinda). Do I even need to mention how much I love the individualized warm and welcoming homes?? Winnie had lots of antiques of sppons, plates, tea cups, chickens on pots and some sweet wicker lamps. I love it!
Saturday I woke up to the clucks of the chickens, the crow of the rooster, even the moos of the cows (sounds pretty country, eh?) and got to go milk cows, ride a horse bareback! Then road a horse all around their farmland. Driving through the mountains we saw lots of sheep, impalas, wild horses and more deer-like animals. Riding in the back of the Toyota trucks, only metal bars to hold on to, our trusty guides took us to a cliff and overlook where we would be going and swimming in a break in the rocks. The view was magnificent! The icy water was quite a refreshing break from the heat of the day! The area was called the ‘jail’ because of the narrow river, high mountains and there being no way to climb out. After a relaxing afternoon of tennis and laying around, we had an amazing supper and then headed out on a nighttime game drive in their truck which was amazing!
We drove through the clouds on Sunday to get to the top of the mountains. They reported that on a clear day you can see all the way to Grahmstown (an hour and half from PE) and sometimes even to Port Elizabeth. It was about an hour jot to the top and the view was amazing. Ah, it was so great!
It was an educating weekend. Got to learn more about small town atmospheres, hear first hand from Winnie the effects of living in such a secluded area, running a farm and the monopoly of a market that is created in small mountainous towns. I got to hear more about the culture and how they have workers who live on their farm and raise their children on the farm. It was really interesting. Not sure if I could ever be cut out for the farm type, who am I kidding, I am not cut out to be the farm type, but props to them!
I also want to mention that the Thursday before that weekend my friend took me and another friend flying! It was amazing. I actually flew over the same mountains and dams and area that we were in the next day. It was beautiful seeing southern South Africa from the air. We were in a tiny ¾ person plane and were up for about 2 hours. Circling around we came back by the ocean and flew over about 200 dolphins! Isn’t life amazing? Who would have thought I’d ever get to experience beauty like this…
Saturday, April 11, 2009
My Ode to Road Tripping
Well, I am nearing the end of my road trip across South Africa, and there is so much to say! When I get home I'll be busy updating and informing, sorting through pictures and sending out messages, not to mention finalizing my schedule to register for fall! But the other night when we got back I kind of wrote something in my journal that semi sums up a portion of this amazing week, or at least gives a taste to the delicious cake that is to come!
9 April 2009
What an interesting and exciting adventure the past few days have turned out to have in store for us! We girls believe we are fairly capable people, and well, we have proven to be! We have navigated ourselves successfully across the western coast. From town to town we have been able to find adventure and fun, enjoyment, fulfillment and some culture with out a hitch. We have made it through mountains and hills, oceanside and landlocked- big towns and countrysides. Our battery failed twice, and within two minutes (both times) we had someone there to jump start it. We are recognized by locals as the "5 American Girls" (now four). We have songs dedicated to the 'American Girls' at bars and it is not uncommon for servers at local restaurants to hug us when we leave. Even at 10 at night we bring together security guards, local 'good Samaritans,' and lock smiths who all get to experience Gold Digga and have a good laugh at our ride. We have the ability to find Spars and Pick n Pays everywhere we go, are excellent in finding the freshest bread and have developed an advanced skill of map reading. Through the road trip we have developed a unique friendship based off of things we've found we have in common- frankly that we sometimes wish we had turrets. through encouragement, a push (or shove) in the right direction, maybe even a pat on the back, we have not only mastered driving on the left, but also U-turns, parallels, tight squeezed parking spots and gravel roads. Our skills and talents range from the array of meals we are able to create from 'left overs' and our precise art we have mastered called 'packing the trunk.' From shoes to shirts, food to hair products, we are pro's and experience 'sharers.' Though at times we may be indecisive, one might agree that our spirits, care free, light-hearted attitudes have contributed to the journey. Finding time to laugh about what a pair of heels can do to a night can even make an older hung over lady on a wine tour giggle. Making friends with our drivers and looking for a cultural experience and knowledge will make us wiser. Scaling the mountain side and canoeing the rives will make us stronger. Climbing a waterfall or climbing a mountain will make us closer. We even listened to church through music while drinking wine and eating dinner. we move at a fast pace, eager to see it all and soak it in- yet still appreciate the small things and will always make time for flowers. While growing and learning we capture memories every chance we get. Anticipating the future, yet holding on to our own grass roots. Four together and each one of a kind, coming together for a perfect full house, or at least a comfy car.
Ah, the joys of adventure.
Let the fun continue!
Happy Easter, hope it is a great day! The South African sunrise was beautiful, hopefully the one at home wasn't too cold =)
Be on the look out for more coming your way!
9 April 2009
What an interesting and exciting adventure the past few days have turned out to have in store for us! We girls believe we are fairly capable people, and well, we have proven to be! We have navigated ourselves successfully across the western coast. From town to town we have been able to find adventure and fun, enjoyment, fulfillment and some culture with out a hitch. We have made it through mountains and hills, oceanside and landlocked- big towns and countrysides. Our battery failed twice, and within two minutes (both times) we had someone there to jump start it. We are recognized by locals as the "5 American Girls" (now four). We have songs dedicated to the 'American Girls' at bars and it is not uncommon for servers at local restaurants to hug us when we leave. Even at 10 at night we bring together security guards, local 'good Samaritans,' and lock smiths who all get to experience Gold Digga and have a good laugh at our ride. We have the ability to find Spars and Pick n Pays everywhere we go, are excellent in finding the freshest bread and have developed an advanced skill of map reading. Through the road trip we have developed a unique friendship based off of things we've found we have in common- frankly that we sometimes wish we had turrets. through encouragement, a push (or shove) in the right direction, maybe even a pat on the back, we have not only mastered driving on the left, but also U-turns, parallels, tight squeezed parking spots and gravel roads. Our skills and talents range from the array of meals we are able to create from 'left overs' and our precise art we have mastered called 'packing the trunk.' From shoes to shirts, food to hair products, we are pro's and experience 'sharers.' Though at times we may be indecisive, one might agree that our spirits, care free, light-hearted attitudes have contributed to the journey. Finding time to laugh about what a pair of heels can do to a night can even make an older hung over lady on a wine tour giggle. Making friends with our drivers and looking for a cultural experience and knowledge will make us wiser. Scaling the mountain side and canoeing the rives will make us stronger. Climbing a waterfall or climbing a mountain will make us closer. We even listened to church through music while drinking wine and eating dinner. we move at a fast pace, eager to see it all and soak it in- yet still appreciate the small things and will always make time for flowers. While growing and learning we capture memories every chance we get. Anticipating the future, yet holding on to our own grass roots. Four together and each one of a kind, coming together for a perfect full house, or at least a comfy car.
Ah, the joys of adventure.
Let the fun continue!
Happy Easter, hope it is a great day! The South African sunrise was beautiful, hopefully the one at home wasn't too cold =)
Be on the look out for more coming your way!
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