Friday at the orphanage was very productive. We painted the "cafeteria", and built about 8 benches for the previously bench-less cafeteria. Being at the orphanage can be very sad. Lots of the kids don't have shoes, most of the uniforms are ripped, there are holes in the walls and no glass in the windows (so it can be very hard to hear the teacher over the noise from outside). One little girl had a wet diaper, but they couldn't give her another one.In the day care room (which is just a room with a bunch of kids and a tiny blackboard), there were about 7 2-year-olds lying against the wall sleeping (I assume in nap time). Two of my friends and I sat in on an English class. As far as we can tell, the kids can walk out if they want too; which means the kids in the room really want to be there. Despite all this, I haven't seen one sad face there (except for a crying baby). The kids are always smiling and laughing so much.
Saturday was a lot of fun. I walked around about 3 different markets, with my host brother and various AFS students. We got smoothies and wonderful banana bread, and in the evening we went to the mall and got pizza - so good! I went to church this morning, which was really fun and interesting. I love the colorful dresses!
For everyone at the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes this week - I'm thinking of you! Eat lots of cherry pie for me.
"I believe the children are our future.
Teach them well and let them lead the way.
Show them all the beauty they possess inside.
Give them a sense of pride"
Hi Ann, Uncle Chris here.
ReplyDeleteI spoke to your Mom this evening - she was sitting on the end of the pier at Little Glen Lake, and since she doesn't have internet access she asked me to contact you to tell you everyone there is thinking about you and misses you. I'll join her and the rest of the family on Wednesday up at the lake. While I'm excited for you about your visit to Ghana, I'm sorry I won't see you in Michigan this time.
Take care of yourself and know that your family misses you tremendously. I'll have a slice of cherry pie in your honor! :-)
-Uncle Chris
People in Ghana are always so happy! It makes me wonder about all of the unhappy Americans who have more possessions than they know what to do with.
ReplyDeleteHave you gotten any colorful clothing for yourself yet?