Sunday- Beginning of our long journey home
This morning we woke up at 6am, finished packing and had our last delicious meal cooked by the famous Fadia. The bus was right on time; he pulled in the gate at 7:00 to pick us up. We loaded up the van with our luggage and off we were to Freetown. Our goal was to make the 11:00 ferry to Lungi, we were the last vehicle to make it on the ferry.
Once we arrived at Lungi we headed to Sierra Paradise Hotel. We had no idea where we were going but the bus driver promised us it was “close” and beautiful. We started down a long bumpy dirt road. Not knowing where we were going it seemed like the road that never ends. We went through village after village, through a police check point, through what seemed like the jungle, and over a “bridge” (which by the way I was scared to death to go over). Finally, an hour later we hit a beautiful white sand beach. There were actually people there vacationing. Everyone on the team was talking about how nice it would be to vacation there. Not me, it was way too remote for this girl.
After some of the team had lunch at the beach resort and we got the bus unstuck (sorry forgot to mention that excitement), we headed back down the long bumpy jungle road and headed to Lungi Airport Hotel. We showered (the water was actually hot) and relaxed for a few hours then off we were to Lungi Airport where the next stop in our long journey home would take place.
Well I showered and felt much better just to stand in line for hours at the Lungi airport to go through multiple check points and security checks because they don’t have metal detectors there. I believe I pulled my passport out eight times before I finally got to sit in my seat on the airplane. We had a pretty good dinner at the Lungi Airport restaurant. The only weird thing we encountered is when one of the customs guys asked for one of our TSA locks. He didn’t know what it was. When Laura handed one over, he asked if we had a key to go with it. Too bad he didn’t know he was the one that should have had the key. Now he has a TSA lock that has no use to it because he doesn’t know the code to unlock it, loser. We took off right on time, 11:45pm.
The flight to Heathrow, London was uneventful. We had a MUCH nicer crew on the BMI then we had going to Freetown. I slept off and on; it was only about a 6 hour flight so it was hard to sleep because we had a meal right when we got on and again an hour before we landed. The group did have the exit row so we had a lot of leg room. It was ALMOST like a free upgrade to first class.
We arrived right on time at Heathrow. I was totally jealous because Scott was home when we got off and the rest of us had a 5 hour layover and 8.5 hour flight still ahead of us before we finally reached our home and final destination. Once we got checked in and through security for the British airways flight we had very British breakfast at the Giraffe at the airport, can’t wait for American food!! I relaxed for the rest of our layover and thought about how EXCITED I was to get home. It will feel good to be back on American soil.
I was SO happy when our plane finally landed at Dulles. I couldn’t wait to see my family, get a clean shower, sleep in my own bed, and it lost of food. I wanted to start singing “God Bless America,” I was so happy and relieved to finally be home.
I had a wonderful time in Africa; it was an experience of a lifetime. Those children will forever be in my heart.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Day #8
Saturday
It is our final day here at the CRC in Bo and how bittersweet it is. This morning we woke up and had scrambled eggs, bread, and cucumbers made by the famous cook, Fadia. We spend the morning packing up and doing various things around the compound. Some people went into the Bo market to run some errands and others stayed back to finish some last minute project items.
This afternoon was just crazy! We had 175 child support program kids over for a “Let’s Read” party. It was just out of control. The kids had a great time so that is all that matters.
Tonight Fadia made me happy again by popping more popcorn for me! I am going to miss that popcorn so much. We also had delicious grouper for dinner, my favorite meal yet!
After dinner we went next door for our final VESPERS with the children and a farewell party to follow. It was a sad goodbye for everyone. I didn’t think it would be so difficult to say goodbye to these children, but let me tell you, it was!
We are getting up very early to start our journey home. The bus is coming at 7am then we will head back to Freetown where we are hoping to catch the 11:00 ferry back to Lungi. Once we get to Lungi we are going to be tourists and go to a beach resort for the day and then head back to the Lungi Airport Hotel where our trip began to shower before heading to the airport. It will be a long couple of days traveling back to the states but this was a trip of a lifetime and it is totally worth the bus, ferry, and two planes that it takes for us to get home.
Goodnight, one last time from Africa. See you all back in the states!
It is our final day here at the CRC in Bo and how bittersweet it is. This morning we woke up and had scrambled eggs, bread, and cucumbers made by the famous cook, Fadia. We spend the morning packing up and doing various things around the compound. Some people went into the Bo market to run some errands and others stayed back to finish some last minute project items.
This afternoon was just crazy! We had 175 child support program kids over for a “Let’s Read” party. It was just out of control. The kids had a great time so that is all that matters.
Tonight Fadia made me happy again by popping more popcorn for me! I am going to miss that popcorn so much. We also had delicious grouper for dinner, my favorite meal yet!
After dinner we went next door for our final VESPERS with the children and a farewell party to follow. It was a sad goodbye for everyone. I didn’t think it would be so difficult to say goodbye to these children, but let me tell you, it was!
We are getting up very early to start our journey home. The bus is coming at 7am then we will head back to Freetown where we are hoping to catch the 11:00 ferry back to Lungi. Once we get to Lungi we are going to be tourists and go to a beach resort for the day and then head back to the Lungi Airport Hotel where our trip began to shower before heading to the airport. It will be a long couple of days traveling back to the states but this was a trip of a lifetime and it is totally worth the bus, ferry, and two planes that it takes for us to get home.
Goodnight, one last time from Africa. See you all back in the states!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day #7
Friday
What a HOT day it was in Bo today! Today we woke up around 7:30 and had delicious hard boiled eggs, bread, and bananas for breakfast. Everyone hung around the MTC for the day to get several projects completed while the children were at school. The men worked on a drainage system while the ladies got things done for the party we are having for the children tomorrow. I did however get to use some electric saw sort of thing, and paint!!
For lunch today we had french-fries (YUMMY), popcorn, and some vegetable stew! We all started packing this afternoon because of the fun filled day we have planned for tomorrow. I can’t believe this week has almost come to an end. When the week first began I didn’t think I would one, survive this trip, and two see the end of the week. Once I finally got more comfortable with being here I quickly started enjoying every moment of this trip and unfortunately it started flying by.
Tonight we had some spicy pasta, pineapple and chicken for dinner. After dinner we went to the CRC for VESPERS. It was a short VESPERS tonight because the children had to vote for their new “Children’s Voice” representative. Let me tell you, they take their voting VERY seriously here. You don’t want to mess with those Sierra Leonean people when they are voting. An hour later… we FINALLY had a winner.
Today ended with a very cool and heavy rain. The men were happy to see that their drainage system was a success. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow, a “Let’s Read Party” for the 175 Child Support Program children from 2-4, followed by a farewell party with the CRC children tomorrow night. There will be a lot of happy children around here tomorrow, a great way to end a fantastic week.
What a HOT day it was in Bo today! Today we woke up around 7:30 and had delicious hard boiled eggs, bread, and bananas for breakfast. Everyone hung around the MTC for the day to get several projects completed while the children were at school. The men worked on a drainage system while the ladies got things done for the party we are having for the children tomorrow. I did however get to use some electric saw sort of thing, and paint!!
For lunch today we had french-fries (YUMMY), popcorn, and some vegetable stew! We all started packing this afternoon because of the fun filled day we have planned for tomorrow. I can’t believe this week has almost come to an end. When the week first began I didn’t think I would one, survive this trip, and two see the end of the week. Once I finally got more comfortable with being here I quickly started enjoying every moment of this trip and unfortunately it started flying by.
Tonight we had some spicy pasta, pineapple and chicken for dinner. After dinner we went to the CRC for VESPERS. It was a short VESPERS tonight because the children had to vote for their new “Children’s Voice” representative. Let me tell you, they take their voting VERY seriously here. You don’t want to mess with those Sierra Leonean people when they are voting. An hour later… we FINALLY had a winner.
Today ended with a very cool and heavy rain. The men were happy to see that their drainage system was a success. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow, a “Let’s Read Party” for the 175 Child Support Program children from 2-4, followed by a farewell party with the CRC children tomorrow night. There will be a lot of happy children around here tomorrow, a great way to end a fantastic week.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day #6
Thursday
Well the week is slowly coming to an end here in Africa. For breakfast we had bread, bananas and hot dogs. Today we went to the upper primary and senior secondary schools. I observed Language Arts in the fourth and sixth grades. It was a difficult morning at the school because one of the CRC children got flauged and was really upset. It is part of the African culture as an act of punishment in the schools. I was hoping we wouldn't have to experience that but unfortunately we did.
On our way home from the schools we had to do a little party shopping in downtown Bo for our farewell party on Saturday. Running errands in Bo is definitely a little different than “running to the grocery store at home.” We did however run into some Americans today, from Louisiana. When we got back the men decided they didn’t want to join us for lunch until they completed painting the girls dorm…men! For lunch we had some sort of stew and rice? I stuck with gram crackers and peanut butter.
All afternoon Laura, Mary, and I gave reading assessments to about 40 of the children so when the summer school team comes down in May they are able to place them in reading groups. What a long afternoon that was. It was really hard listening to those children struggle through basic reading that they should be able to read at their grade level. Hopefully this will truly benefit them this summer.
For dinner we had some potato stew I think? I don’t know anymore. We had the usual routine, vespers, then went to the girl’s dorm and read a chapter of Charlotte’s Web to them. I enjoy vespers every night because they end the night by singing several songs that they just sing beautifully.
It has been another super, super hot and humid day. Unfortunately I got my first mosquito bite of the week. I can’t believe tomorrow is already Friday; the second part of this week has really flown by. Goodnight from half a world away.
Well the week is slowly coming to an end here in Africa. For breakfast we had bread, bananas and hot dogs. Today we went to the upper primary and senior secondary schools. I observed Language Arts in the fourth and sixth grades. It was a difficult morning at the school because one of the CRC children got flauged and was really upset. It is part of the African culture as an act of punishment in the schools. I was hoping we wouldn't have to experience that but unfortunately we did.
On our way home from the schools we had to do a little party shopping in downtown Bo for our farewell party on Saturday. Running errands in Bo is definitely a little different than “running to the grocery store at home.” We did however run into some Americans today, from Louisiana. When we got back the men decided they didn’t want to join us for lunch until they completed painting the girls dorm…men! For lunch we had some sort of stew and rice? I stuck with gram crackers and peanut butter.
All afternoon Laura, Mary, and I gave reading assessments to about 40 of the children so when the summer school team comes down in May they are able to place them in reading groups. What a long afternoon that was. It was really hard listening to those children struggle through basic reading that they should be able to read at their grade level. Hopefully this will truly benefit them this summer.
For dinner we had some potato stew I think? I don’t know anymore. We had the usual routine, vespers, then went to the girl’s dorm and read a chapter of Charlotte’s Web to them. I enjoy vespers every night because they end the night by singing several songs that they just sing beautifully.
It has been another super, super hot and humid day. Unfortunately I got my first mosquito bite of the week. I can’t believe tomorrow is already Friday; the second part of this week has really flown by. Goodnight from half a world away.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Day #5
Wednesday
It is another hot day in Africa today. This morning I woke up had a little breakfast and headed to Zenith to do some more school observations. Today I had the opportunity to observe second grade all morning today I then got to play at recess with some of the kiddos for a little bit. Playing consisted of me running around with 100 kids chasing after me…So cute.
After we observed the schools we went to the market in Bo to pick up some items for the party we are having on Saturday for the kids. I bought a bunch of fabric for 55000 Leones (about $14 dollars) that the tailor is going to make into skirts and dresses for me before I leave.
For lunch we had the most amazing french-fries, cucumbers, and something else (no idea what it was). This afternoon I continued to tackle the children’s books in the library and helped paint the boy’s dorm (yes I painted). After a busy and exhausting afternoon painting in the heat I spent the rest of the day hanging out with the children.
Tonight we had the Director, Mr. Jimmy Lamboi over to the MTC for dinner along with a few of the college children that have been helping with all the paint work that the team has been doing. It was a good time had by all. For dinner we had fired chicken, pineapple, popcorn, and some kind of spicy rice. It was really good. We then went next door to the CRC for VESPERS and listened to the girls sing for us in their doom for a little while before bed, my favorite part of the day.
Today was just an uncomfortable hot and humid day. I really hope it will cool down tonight and/or we get a rain storm at some point. The week is starting to go by a lot quicker than the beginning of the week did. I never thought I’d say this, but I am really getting used to this Africa “lifestyle” in which I have had to come accustomed to over the past couple of days.
Goodnight from Bo.
It is another hot day in Africa today. This morning I woke up had a little breakfast and headed to Zenith to do some more school observations. Today I had the opportunity to observe second grade all morning today I then got to play at recess with some of the kiddos for a little bit. Playing consisted of me running around with 100 kids chasing after me…So cute.
After we observed the schools we went to the market in Bo to pick up some items for the party we are having on Saturday for the kids. I bought a bunch of fabric for 55000 Leones (about $14 dollars) that the tailor is going to make into skirts and dresses for me before I leave.
For lunch we had the most amazing french-fries, cucumbers, and something else (no idea what it was). This afternoon I continued to tackle the children’s books in the library and helped paint the boy’s dorm (yes I painted). After a busy and exhausting afternoon painting in the heat I spent the rest of the day hanging out with the children.
Tonight we had the Director, Mr. Jimmy Lamboi over to the MTC for dinner along with a few of the college children that have been helping with all the paint work that the team has been doing. It was a good time had by all. For dinner we had fired chicken, pineapple, popcorn, and some kind of spicy rice. It was really good. We then went next door to the CRC for VESPERS and listened to the girls sing for us in their doom for a little while before bed, my favorite part of the day.
Today was just an uncomfortable hot and humid day. I really hope it will cool down tonight and/or we get a rain storm at some point. The week is starting to go by a lot quicker than the beginning of the week did. I never thought I’d say this, but I am really getting used to this Africa “lifestyle” in which I have had to come accustomed to over the past couple of days.
Goodnight from Bo.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day #4
Tuesday
Last night I fell asleep to pouring rain on the tin roof of our building. It put me right asleep and kept me asleep through the night. I woke up this morning feeling very homesick. I know I will get through this week though. I never thought it would be this hard to be in a third world country this far away from my family and friends, but it is.
For breakfast this morning we had hard boiled eggs, pineapple, and bread. We then got ready and Laura, Mary, and I headed to Zenith to do some more school
observations. Today I got to observe a fourth and seventh grade class. I really enjoyed sitting in on the fourth grade class. I had the opportunity to observe a little bit of science (electricity) and math (division). When I was sitting in the classrooms and started to think about the lack of educational tools these children have to learn with. They sit had desks sometimes two-three per desk; they have a pen and pencil, a composition notebook, and a chalkboard. There are no lights in the classrooms, no textbooks, children books to read, computers, or educational posters. I couldn’t believe that these children were learning so much with barely any educational tools to learn with. In the United States schools spend millions of dollars a year to make sure there are copy machines, each teacher has a laptop, paper, textbooks, posters, smart boards, and the list can go on and on. Even though the children have the barest of essentials to learn with it blows me away when I see how excited the children are here about learning and receiving an education. They truly feel privileged that they are receiving and education, something that American kids don’t feel because it is a way of everyday life.
We finally had a break in the weather today. It has been a bit “cooler” and overcast. I spent the afternoon chopping away at the library some more and spent some time with the children when they got home from school. I have totally fallen in love with a six year old named Saffie. She is coming home with me in my suite case. She hasn’t said anything to me since we have been here but would hang on to me and want me to constantly pick her up and give her a piggyback ride. When I saw her afterschool today, she ran up to me and gave me a hug and said, “hi Lindsey,” and starting talking up a storm. She is the youngest child here at the CRC and I can’t get over how happy she is. I saw her off to school yesterday morning and I couldn’t even imagine how it would feel to not have my parents around to see me off to school when I was that age. Yet, she always has a big smile on her face.
For dinner we had fish stew, popcorn, cucumbers, yams, and potatoes, quite tasty. I am craving my mom’s food though, that’s for sure. After dinner we went over to see the children for VESPERS. The girls decided to go to the boy’s dorm to hear them tell goodnight stories and sing a few songs to us before they went to sleep.
Another day has come to an end here in Bo. Although I am feeling more homesick than I have all week, this experience has already been life changing and I know it will be one that I remember for the rest of my life.
Last night I fell asleep to pouring rain on the tin roof of our building. It put me right asleep and kept me asleep through the night. I woke up this morning feeling very homesick. I know I will get through this week though. I never thought it would be this hard to be in a third world country this far away from my family and friends, but it is.
For breakfast this morning we had hard boiled eggs, pineapple, and bread. We then got ready and Laura, Mary, and I headed to Zenith to do some more school
observations. Today I got to observe a fourth and seventh grade class. I really enjoyed sitting in on the fourth grade class. I had the opportunity to observe a little bit of science (electricity) and math (division). When I was sitting in the classrooms and started to think about the lack of educational tools these children have to learn with. They sit had desks sometimes two-three per desk; they have a pen and pencil, a composition notebook, and a chalkboard. There are no lights in the classrooms, no textbooks, children books to read, computers, or educational posters. I couldn’t believe that these children were learning so much with barely any educational tools to learn with. In the United States schools spend millions of dollars a year to make sure there are copy machines, each teacher has a laptop, paper, textbooks, posters, smart boards, and the list can go on and on. Even though the children have the barest of essentials to learn with it blows me away when I see how excited the children are here about learning and receiving an education. They truly feel privileged that they are receiving and education, something that American kids don’t feel because it is a way of everyday life.
We finally had a break in the weather today. It has been a bit “cooler” and overcast. I spent the afternoon chopping away at the library some more and spent some time with the children when they got home from school. I have totally fallen in love with a six year old named Saffie. She is coming home with me in my suite case. She hasn’t said anything to me since we have been here but would hang on to me and want me to constantly pick her up and give her a piggyback ride. When I saw her afterschool today, she ran up to me and gave me a hug and said, “hi Lindsey,” and starting talking up a storm. She is the youngest child here at the CRC and I can’t get over how happy she is. I saw her off to school yesterday morning and I couldn’t even imagine how it would feel to not have my parents around to see me off to school when I was that age. Yet, she always has a big smile on her face.
For dinner we had fish stew, popcorn, cucumbers, yams, and potatoes, quite tasty. I am craving my mom’s food though, that’s for sure. After dinner we went over to see the children for VESPERS. The girls decided to go to the boy’s dorm to hear them tell goodnight stories and sing a few songs to us before they went to sleep.
Another day has come to an end here in Bo. Although I am feeling more homesick than I have all week, this experience has already been life changing and I know it will be one that I remember for the rest of my life.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Day #3
Today we woke up around 7:30 and ate breakfast as a team. We then got ready and the girls departed for Zenith where we spent the morning observing classrooms. I had the opportunity to observe a Kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd class today. From the short amount of time I spent in each of the classrooms there were many things that were similar to how schools are ran in the States and there were many things that were very different as well.
The kindergarten class was talking about nouns. I know for a fact that we don’t even mention nouns till first or second grade in the United States. They are learning on a different level than students in America.
We then left the day school and went to the upper elementary Zenith school where 4th through 12th attend school. There I had the opportunity to observe a 9th grade class who was learning about pig reproduction… very interesting. Definitely didn’t think I would come here to learn about pig reproduction, but I did. I had a very difficult time understating what the teacher was saying even though he was speaking English. I understood the primary teachers very well but in the upper grades I found myself having a very difficult time understanding what they were saying.
Around 12:00 we came back to the CRC for a delicious lunch. Before we came down here I was told by many people how great the popcorn was. I was so happy when I heard we were going to have popcorn with lunch today. I will confirm it was the BEST popcorn I have ever had!
For the rest of the afternoon Laura, Mary, Scott, and myself started to tackle the VERY unorganized library. This is a task that we will not complete this week. They children have so many great books but it lacks any kind of organization.
Right before dinner we had a heavy rain storm. I decided to take advantage of the rain and go outside in my clothes and take a “shower.” It cooled me off and felt amazing! For dinner we had rice and some sort of green stuff and pineapple for a side. We then went next door for Vespers. The children got their pen pal letters tonight. I really enjoyed reading the letters to them. I loved seeing all the smiles on the children’s faces.
Another day has come to an end here in Bo. Today has been the hottest day yet. Hopefully it will “cool” down a little tonight. The good thing is the generator came on around 4:00 today so we will at least have some fans blowing as we fall asleep! The team had never seen someone so happy when I saw lights come on in the bathroom this afternoon. They thought I ran into someone I knew in Africa. I wish! The electricity made me happy though.
The kindergarten class was talking about nouns. I know for a fact that we don’t even mention nouns till first or second grade in the United States. They are learning on a different level than students in America.
We then left the day school and went to the upper elementary Zenith school where 4th through 12th attend school. There I had the opportunity to observe a 9th grade class who was learning about pig reproduction… very interesting. Definitely didn’t think I would come here to learn about pig reproduction, but I did. I had a very difficult time understating what the teacher was saying even though he was speaking English. I understood the primary teachers very well but in the upper grades I found myself having a very difficult time understanding what they were saying.
Around 12:00 we came back to the CRC for a delicious lunch. Before we came down here I was told by many people how great the popcorn was. I was so happy when I heard we were going to have popcorn with lunch today. I will confirm it was the BEST popcorn I have ever had!
For the rest of the afternoon Laura, Mary, Scott, and myself started to tackle the VERY unorganized library. This is a task that we will not complete this week. They children have so many great books but it lacks any kind of organization.
Right before dinner we had a heavy rain storm. I decided to take advantage of the rain and go outside in my clothes and take a “shower.” It cooled me off and felt amazing! For dinner we had rice and some sort of green stuff and pineapple for a side. We then went next door for Vespers. The children got their pen pal letters tonight. I really enjoyed reading the letters to them. I loved seeing all the smiles on the children’s faces.
Another day has come to an end here in Bo. Today has been the hottest day yet. Hopefully it will “cool” down a little tonight. The good thing is the generator came on around 4:00 today so we will at least have some fans blowing as we fall asleep! The team had never seen someone so happy when I saw lights come on in the bathroom this afternoon. They thought I ran into someone I knew in Africa. I wish! The electricity made me happy though.
Day #2
Sunday
This morning we woke up and split our group up so we could attend the two different churches that the CRC children attend and sing in the choir. I went to Centenary United Methodist Church where the older children sing in the choir. The service lasted 2.5 hours long. Being a horrible person I dozed off for about 3 minutes during a very looooong prayer. Oops.
After church we walked back to the CRC. I wasn’t thrilled about that idea but it did give me the opportunity to see some of Bo. Bo is a very poor town. I was more taken back by how poor Bo was compared to my reaction to Freetown. There are a lot more people living in manmade “huts” then in Freetown.
When we got back to the CRC we ate peanut butter sandwiches for lunch and then went next door to spend a few hour with the children. We made paper airplanes, sang several songs with the kids while the boys played the guitar, played a little basketball (I was horrible), gave many piggy back rides, and last but not least got my hair braided SEVERAL times!
We spend the rest of the afternoon unpacking and organizing all of the stuff we brought for the CRC. For dinner we had some sort of delicious spicy pasta and GREAT grapefruit, I think I hate about 2 whole grape fruits.
After dinner we went to VESPERS and then were invited to the girls rooms to read them “High School Musical 2.” Before we said goodnight the girls all sang the most beautiful songs. It was the most amazing thing I have ever heard.
All in all, day #2 went pretty well. Still missing home but I will get through the rest of the week. This is definitely a step outside my comfort zone.
This morning we woke up and split our group up so we could attend the two different churches that the CRC children attend and sing in the choir. I went to Centenary United Methodist Church where the older children sing in the choir. The service lasted 2.5 hours long. Being a horrible person I dozed off for about 3 minutes during a very looooong prayer. Oops.
After church we walked back to the CRC. I wasn’t thrilled about that idea but it did give me the opportunity to see some of Bo. Bo is a very poor town. I was more taken back by how poor Bo was compared to my reaction to Freetown. There are a lot more people living in manmade “huts” then in Freetown.
When we got back to the CRC we ate peanut butter sandwiches for lunch and then went next door to spend a few hour with the children. We made paper airplanes, sang several songs with the kids while the boys played the guitar, played a little basketball (I was horrible), gave many piggy back rides, and last but not least got my hair braided SEVERAL times!
We spend the rest of the afternoon unpacking and organizing all of the stuff we brought for the CRC. For dinner we had some sort of delicious spicy pasta and GREAT grapefruit, I think I hate about 2 whole grape fruits.
After dinner we went to VESPERS and then were invited to the girls rooms to read them “High School Musical 2.” Before we said goodnight the girls all sang the most beautiful songs. It was the most amazing thing I have ever heard.
All in all, day #2 went pretty well. Still missing home but I will get through the rest of the week. This is definitely a step outside my comfort zone.
Lungi Airport Hotel to Freetown to our FINAL destination, BO.... FINALLY!
Saturday
When we woke up at Lungi Airport Hotel we reloaded the bus and headed to the Ferry that took us to Freetown. I couldn’t believe all the people that were waiting to get on the Ferry with all of their “goods” to sell at the market. We saw everything from fresh vegetables to live chickens!
We were all exhausted and running on nothing but adrenalin at that point. The ferry ride was about an hour long. Sierra Leone is a beautiful country. I really enjoyed having the opportunity to take the ferry over because it allowed me to see some of the beautiful mounitans and beaches Sierra Leone has to offer.
Once we got to Freetown we got back on our bus and picked up a few of the CRC college students that just got out of school for break. They took us to the market where we did some shopping. I had a great time bargaining with the vendors—if it wasn’t for those college students I wouldn’t have had clue as to what to do. After getting some help at the first vendor I quickly became a pro at getting the vendor to agree to the price I was willing to pay.
After spending a good amount of time in the market we then had a DELIOUS lunch at the Crown. Laura and I shared a great cheese pizza. I am craving it again it was so good. When we finished lunch it was time to get on the bus to head to Bo.
It took FOREVER to just get out of Freetown. I felt as though I was back in Northern Virginia because of the traffic jam we were sitting in. Not fun, especially in a VERY jam packed van! We finally got moving and it took us about 3 hours to get to the CRC in Bo. Of course a road trip cannot be complete without some sort of excitement. When we were about an hour outside of Bo we saw a HUGE brush fire. I was scared to death because we were about to go through a thunderstorm and the winds were picking up so the wind kept pushing the fire across the street. I was sitting on the window side of the van and Laura grabbed me and I dunked on her lap. We could feel the heat the fire was so big!
On a good note we only went through one police check point. With all of my worries leading up to that part of the trip, it ended up being nothing. They said hello and waved us right through. During the last part of our trip we went through a pretty big rain storm. I didn’t think in rained in Africa, especially during the dry season, which is the season we are in now.
When we finally arrive at the CRC we unloaded the van and ran next door to see the kids. I couldn’t believe how nice of a place we were staying. When I use to go on mission trips to Sneedville Tennessee and the places we stayed there can’t even compare to this. It is clean, comfortable (minus the heat), and a safe place to stay. It amazed me how excited the kids were to see us even though they didn’t know some of the team members. They immediately ran up to us and hugged all of us like they have known us their entire lives.
We then came back to have dinner (rice and chick) and unpack. Every night at 7:00 the children have VESPERS where the children sing and read a bible verse/have a bible lesson and sing some worship songs and a “goodnight lullaby.”
Before it was time for bed after an exhausting day, Kate took me to the lab so I could touch base back home. I was feeling very homesick!
When we woke up at Lungi Airport Hotel we reloaded the bus and headed to the Ferry that took us to Freetown. I couldn’t believe all the people that were waiting to get on the Ferry with all of their “goods” to sell at the market. We saw everything from fresh vegetables to live chickens!
We were all exhausted and running on nothing but adrenalin at that point. The ferry ride was about an hour long. Sierra Leone is a beautiful country. I really enjoyed having the opportunity to take the ferry over because it allowed me to see some of the beautiful mounitans and beaches Sierra Leone has to offer.
Once we got to Freetown we got back on our bus and picked up a few of the CRC college students that just got out of school for break. They took us to the market where we did some shopping. I had a great time bargaining with the vendors—if it wasn’t for those college students I wouldn’t have had clue as to what to do. After getting some help at the first vendor I quickly became a pro at getting the vendor to agree to the price I was willing to pay.
After spending a good amount of time in the market we then had a DELIOUS lunch at the Crown. Laura and I shared a great cheese pizza. I am craving it again it was so good. When we finished lunch it was time to get on the bus to head to Bo.
It took FOREVER to just get out of Freetown. I felt as though I was back in Northern Virginia because of the traffic jam we were sitting in. Not fun, especially in a VERY jam packed van! We finally got moving and it took us about 3 hours to get to the CRC in Bo. Of course a road trip cannot be complete without some sort of excitement. When we were about an hour outside of Bo we saw a HUGE brush fire. I was scared to death because we were about to go through a thunderstorm and the winds were picking up so the wind kept pushing the fire across the street. I was sitting on the window side of the van and Laura grabbed me and I dunked on her lap. We could feel the heat the fire was so big!
On a good note we only went through one police check point. With all of my worries leading up to that part of the trip, it ended up being nothing. They said hello and waved us right through. During the last part of our trip we went through a pretty big rain storm. I didn’t think in rained in Africa, especially during the dry season, which is the season we are in now.
When we finally arrive at the CRC we unloaded the van and ran next door to see the kids. I couldn’t believe how nice of a place we were staying. When I use to go on mission trips to Sneedville Tennessee and the places we stayed there can’t even compare to this. It is clean, comfortable (minus the heat), and a safe place to stay. It amazed me how excited the kids were to see us even though they didn’t know some of the team members. They immediately ran up to us and hugged all of us like they have known us their entire lives.
We then came back to have dinner (rice and chick) and unpack. Every night at 7:00 the children have VESPERS where the children sing and read a bible verse/have a bible lesson and sing some worship songs and a “goodnight lullaby.”
Before it was time for bed after an exhausting day, Kate took me to the lab so I could touch base back home. I was feeling very homesick!
London to Lungi (Africa)
After a three hour delay and two airplanes with problems, we finally arrived in Freetown around 1:00am. We stopped in Spain to re-fuel because our plane was very heavy (probably due to all the stuff our team brought). The flight was pretty bumpy but we all survived. The BMI crew was interesting. Very different from the nice, pleasant, and happy crew we had on British Airways. For example, I asked one of the crew members on BMI for an ice water. The flight attendant says, "really?" I said "yes, really," he says "you mean water with ice." That was just one of the many things that were said on that leg of the flight.
All of our luggage made it to Africa! :) It was a little chaotic at the airport trying to explain why we were there and to get through customs but we did.
When we finally arrived at the Lungi Airport Hotel (definitely not the Ritz) we had a very late dinner around 1:30am. All we wanted to do is sleep because we were so exhausted but we had to be polite and eat the meal they had prepared for us. Of course, I had to be the one to see the lizard run up the wall of my hotel room, definitely unsettling. We finally got to "bed" around 2:30 and woke up at 6:00am, it was a nice little nap.
All of our luggage made it to Africa! :) It was a little chaotic at the airport trying to explain why we were there and to get through customs but we did.
When we finally arrived at the Lungi Airport Hotel (definitely not the Ritz) we had a very late dinner around 1:30am. All we wanted to do is sleep because we were so exhausted but we had to be polite and eat the meal they had prepared for us. Of course, I had to be the one to see the lizard run up the wall of my hotel room, definitely unsettling. We finally got to "bed" around 2:30 and woke up at 6:00am, it was a nice little nap.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Day 1: Dulles to London
Well after a few tears, many panic sessions, and a push on the plane... I am sitting in London waiting to depart to Freetown. The fight to London was uneventful. I watched The Blindside and slept the rest of the way. Our flight is already two hours delayed to Freetown so we are just waiting to hear when we are going to board and take off. Hopefully it will be soon because if I don't get on I might find a flight back to Washington.
The people on my team are great. We have really been enjoying our time together and getting to know each other even more. It is going to be a great week. I am just ready to get there. :)
Until next time... Cheers!! (Everyone says that in London) :)
The people on my team are great. We have really been enjoying our time together and getting to know each other even more. It is going to be a great week. I am just ready to get there. :)
Until next time... Cheers!! (Everyone says that in London) :)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Preparation
As I am in the final days (9) preparing to embark on this trip of a lifetime I am struggling to find time to sit down and think about what I am truly going to get out of this trip. I was not planning on writing a blog today, however, I felt as though I needed to.
After attending several team meetings and sending countless amounts of emails to team members who have been on this trip before, I still find myself not knowing what to expect. I find myself taking the information I have absorbed over the past few months and only being able to imagine what Africa will be like, what I will truly be doing there, how I will react to being in a place where people have so little, what are the people like, will I be safe, and the thoughts go on and on.
As I was treating my clothes that I will be taking to Africa with me today, I was listening to music off of my Ipod, a song came on that I haven't heard in a while called "I Can Only Imagine." I paused for a second and listened to the words and thought to myself how perfect these lyrics were. It was a song that expressed exactly what I was thinking and feeling. No matter how much "preparing" you do and how much other team members tell me about their previous trips to Sierra Leone, I can truly only imagine what it will be like and what I "think" I will get out of this experience. One thing I am sure of is that that I am going there to learn, to grow, and to expand my horizons. In what ways will that happen? I will find out over the course of the next several weeks.
After attending several team meetings and sending countless amounts of emails to team members who have been on this trip before, I still find myself not knowing what to expect. I find myself taking the information I have absorbed over the past few months and only being able to imagine what Africa will be like, what I will truly be doing there, how I will react to being in a place where people have so little, what are the people like, will I be safe, and the thoughts go on and on.
As I was treating my clothes that I will be taking to Africa with me today, I was listening to music off of my Ipod, a song came on that I haven't heard in a while called "I Can Only Imagine." I paused for a second and listened to the words and thought to myself how perfect these lyrics were. It was a song that expressed exactly what I was thinking and feeling. No matter how much "preparing" you do and how much other team members tell me about their previous trips to Sierra Leone, I can truly only imagine what it will be like and what I "think" I will get out of this experience. One thing I am sure of is that that I am going there to learn, to grow, and to expand my horizons. In what ways will that happen? I will find out over the course of the next several weeks.
Monday, February 15, 2010
17 days and counting...
In 17 days I will be on the plane headed to Sierra Leone. It has been easy for me to get wrapped up in my nerves leading up to this trip and forget about what I am looking forward to experiencing and getting out of this trip. I already know that this trip is going to be a life changing experience, one that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
There are many things as a future teacher I hope to get out of this trip. Each day I will have the opportunity to observe classrooms at Zenith, the school where the CRC children attend. I have spent a lot of time over the years developing my philosophy of teaching. I am looking forward to comparing the philosophy of teaching in which I have created through classroom observation, field experience, and internships to the philosophies in which teachers in Africa use. Classroom management is something that I heavily focus on in my philosophy of teaching. One of my focuses will be comparing teaching techniques that teachers at Zenith have in place in order to manage behavior compared to the behavior management techniques I believe should be applied in a classroom.
Being able to show students that learning is fun and exciting is essential to how a child applies him or herself to learning and education. As a teacher however, this can not be the easiest of things to do. I am looking forward to observing how teachers in Africa engage their students in learning and how they not just motivate them to do well in school but how they encourage their students to love learning.
Something that I am looking forward to the most is possibly having the opportunity to talk to the teachers at Zenith. It is going to be such a eye-opening opportunity to be able to get insight from a teacher in Africa on how they feel about being a teacher and their experiences. Being able to talk to the students at Zenith is going to be very inspirational as well.
Throughout my college career I have spent hundreds of hours in American classrooms and have grown to understand that developing a teaching philosophy is an ongoing process and experience. Education is always changing around the world, which means educators must look at teaching as a continuing learning process. As a future teacher, every day I spend in a classroom is allowing me another opportunity to learn something new, just as the students are. I am blessed that I have the opportunity to observe a classroom not just in another state, but in Sierra Leone, Africa. I know at the conclusion of this trip that I will have learned something from the teachers I observe at Zenith and the children I interact with, all of which will have a profound impact on me as a future educator.
It is bittersweet knowing that the final three credits I need in order to complete my degree for graduation in May, will be coming from making a difference in the lives of children half way around the world. There aren't too many college students that get to experience such a thing.
There are many things as a future teacher I hope to get out of this trip. Each day I will have the opportunity to observe classrooms at Zenith, the school where the CRC children attend. I have spent a lot of time over the years developing my philosophy of teaching. I am looking forward to comparing the philosophy of teaching in which I have created through classroom observation, field experience, and internships to the philosophies in which teachers in Africa use. Classroom management is something that I heavily focus on in my philosophy of teaching. One of my focuses will be comparing teaching techniques that teachers at Zenith have in place in order to manage behavior compared to the behavior management techniques I believe should be applied in a classroom.
Being able to show students that learning is fun and exciting is essential to how a child applies him or herself to learning and education. As a teacher however, this can not be the easiest of things to do. I am looking forward to observing how teachers in Africa engage their students in learning and how they not just motivate them to do well in school but how they encourage their students to love learning.
Something that I am looking forward to the most is possibly having the opportunity to talk to the teachers at Zenith. It is going to be such a eye-opening opportunity to be able to get insight from a teacher in Africa on how they feel about being a teacher and their experiences. Being able to talk to the students at Zenith is going to be very inspirational as well.
Throughout my college career I have spent hundreds of hours in American classrooms and have grown to understand that developing a teaching philosophy is an ongoing process and experience. Education is always changing around the world, which means educators must look at teaching as a continuing learning process. As a future teacher, every day I spend in a classroom is allowing me another opportunity to learn something new, just as the students are. I am blessed that I have the opportunity to observe a classroom not just in another state, but in Sierra Leone, Africa. I know at the conclusion of this trip that I will have learned something from the teachers I observe at Zenith and the children I interact with, all of which will have a profound impact on me as a future educator.
It is bittersweet knowing that the final three credits I need in order to complete my degree for graduation in May, will be coming from making a difference in the lives of children half way around the world. There aren't too many college students that get to experience such a thing.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Taking A Step Outside My Comfort Zone
In six weeks I will be traveling to Bo, Sierra Leone Africa. Yes, Africa! If you were to ask any family member or friend of mine what they thought of Lindsey Williams, "Miss. High Maintenance" going to Africa, they would laugh and not believe you. This has been the reaction from just about everyone I have shared this with over the past several weeks as I have been preparing to go on this trip. Although I am scared out of my mind, I know it is an opportunity I couldn't let down, an opportunity that will probably change my life forever.
Last semester I met Dr. Laura Horvath, a professor of mine who shared with the class, on many occasions, the work she does with the Child Rescue Centre (CRC), as the chair of the education committee. After hearing several heartwarming stories I found myself growing more and more interested in the work she did there. I stayed after class one day to find out even more about the CRC. I asked her if she could bring any students on the trip and she talked to the CRC committee and brought me an application to fill out. Not really thinking much of it, I filled out the application and turned it in. I was pretty excited but I didn't even know if I would be allowed to go and I didn't even really know much about the trip in general. Several weeks later I found out that I was chosen to join the March team on their trip to Africa. By participating in this trip I will be receiving three credits as an independent study through the preparation for the trip, the work I do while I am in Africa, and by completing a Multigenre paper at the end of my journey.
I am still learning about the CRC and the work they do there. The CRC is made up of 70 children who are orphans from the brutal diamond war that ended in 2000. This organization was created to give these children shelter, food, clothing, and ensure that they receive the best education possible. Dr. Laura Horvath oversees that these children receive and continue to receive that great education that every child is worthy of. To find out more about the CRC you can click here.
While I am there, I will be observing the classrooms and schools the CRC children attend. In the evenings I will be working with students on the CRC base where the children live, tutoring and helping some of them prepare for their college entrance exams. As an elementary education major and future teacher, I am looking forward to this experience. I am currently doing my internship in a second grade classroom. I have been sharing with the class this journey and explaining to them what I will be doing in Africa. Their enthusiasm and excitement they show makes me even more excited for my trip.
As the trip gets closer and closer the more nervous I find myself. I have never traveled outside of the United Sates before expect to Mexico and the Caribbean. Having my first trip outside of the "real world" be to Africa is an extremely scary thing. I don't like flying, so just crossing the Atlantic Ocean and embarking on that extremely long trip is a huge thing for me. When I start thinking about this trip too much I find myself going from excitement to being scared out of my mind very quickly. At times I find myself thinking about all of the things that could possibly go wrong or happen to me on this trip and it absolutely terrifies me. However, I know that I will be in good hands and among many prayers of my family and friends for the safety of me as well as the rest of my team members I will be traveling with.
This is an experience that not everyone gets to encounter in their lifetime. Growing up I was very involved with my church participating in several mission trips, spreading the word of God. When I started college I found myself not as involved anymore and struggling to find the time to do what I love, making a difference in people's lives. With graduation in May quickly approaching, I will be starting a new chapter in my life. I couldn't think of a better way to begin this new chapter. I know that this experience will change my life forever, not only as a person, but as a friend, family member, and future teacher. It is very easy to get wrapped up in the crazy everyday life we live in from day to day and forget about the millions of people around the world who need our help. I am blessed that I am able to travel to Bo, Sierra Leone and lend a hand in making a difference in the lives of these children. What an experience it will be.
Last semester I met Dr. Laura Horvath, a professor of mine who shared with the class, on many occasions, the work she does with the Child Rescue Centre (CRC), as the chair of the education committee. After hearing several heartwarming stories I found myself growing more and more interested in the work she did there. I stayed after class one day to find out even more about the CRC. I asked her if she could bring any students on the trip and she talked to the CRC committee and brought me an application to fill out. Not really thinking much of it, I filled out the application and turned it in. I was pretty excited but I didn't even know if I would be allowed to go and I didn't even really know much about the trip in general. Several weeks later I found out that I was chosen to join the March team on their trip to Africa. By participating in this trip I will be receiving three credits as an independent study through the preparation for the trip, the work I do while I am in Africa, and by completing a Multigenre paper at the end of my journey.
I am still learning about the CRC and the work they do there. The CRC is made up of 70 children who are orphans from the brutal diamond war that ended in 2000. This organization was created to give these children shelter, food, clothing, and ensure that they receive the best education possible. Dr. Laura Horvath oversees that these children receive and continue to receive that great education that every child is worthy of. To find out more about the CRC you can click here.
While I am there, I will be observing the classrooms and schools the CRC children attend. In the evenings I will be working with students on the CRC base where the children live, tutoring and helping some of them prepare for their college entrance exams. As an elementary education major and future teacher, I am looking forward to this experience. I am currently doing my internship in a second grade classroom. I have been sharing with the class this journey and explaining to them what I will be doing in Africa. Their enthusiasm and excitement they show makes me even more excited for my trip.
As the trip gets closer and closer the more nervous I find myself. I have never traveled outside of the United Sates before expect to Mexico and the Caribbean. Having my first trip outside of the "real world" be to Africa is an extremely scary thing. I don't like flying, so just crossing the Atlantic Ocean and embarking on that extremely long trip is a huge thing for me. When I start thinking about this trip too much I find myself going from excitement to being scared out of my mind very quickly. At times I find myself thinking about all of the things that could possibly go wrong or happen to me on this trip and it absolutely terrifies me. However, I know that I will be in good hands and among many prayers of my family and friends for the safety of me as well as the rest of my team members I will be traveling with.
This is an experience that not everyone gets to encounter in their lifetime. Growing up I was very involved with my church participating in several mission trips, spreading the word of God. When I started college I found myself not as involved anymore and struggling to find the time to do what I love, making a difference in people's lives. With graduation in May quickly approaching, I will be starting a new chapter in my life. I couldn't think of a better way to begin this new chapter. I know that this experience will change my life forever, not only as a person, but as a friend, family member, and future teacher. It is very easy to get wrapped up in the crazy everyday life we live in from day to day and forget about the millions of people around the world who need our help. I am blessed that I am able to travel to Bo, Sierra Leone and lend a hand in making a difference in the lives of these children. What an experience it will be.
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