South Africa Team Journal


Monday, July 27, 2009

Monday, July 27, 2009



“Life is great. Enjoy every moment.” – Wimpy’s receipt

A nutritious breakfast (eggs, toast, cereal, yogurt, oatmeal and juice) got the day off to a good start. This was the first day without Dan and Bob – they left yesterday – the team misses them as they both added a lot.

We discussed the great weekend and then left for school. Nice long walk to school today – the weather is warmer and no wind, so walking was pleasurable.

It was a good day at school. Everyone is getting more used to the routine. Sara and Don observed Xhosa lesson and then assisted with math. The kids are well mannered and attentive. During morning break, volunteers got to play a local kids’ game – Love My Teddy Bear. Everyone gets in a circle, one is selected to dance and clap in the center – great fun!

After school, we relaxed and at 3 p.m. we accepted the Rev. Bashe’s invitation to visit an orphanage in Ngqeleni. Transportation consisted of riding in the back of a small truck with a topper on it (great for team bonding), i.e., we all felt like illegal immigrants being smuggled someplace! After a short bumpy ride, we arrived at the orphanage. The grounds were attractive and the children seemed happy. We got to meet some of the 60 children living there and a staff member gave us a comprehensive tour.

After the orphanage, we toured the police station at the invitation of Police Chief Donnie Kettledas. Interesting tour! We got to see the whole station, including the cells of the prisoners. After the tour, we piled back in the truck for a short ride home.

Excellent dinner —the cooks are really fantastic – and after some good conversation, we adjourned to the guesthouse “game room.” The puzzle brigade went right to work —good progress on puzzle.

Deborah took Don’s measure in cribbage, winning two out of three – to everyone’s (except Don’s) delight! Early bedtime for everyone.

Submitted by Don

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