Unfortunately, due to the cost of internet and the frequently crashing computers in zambia, the blog is too difficult to update. We will update the blog with stories when we arrive in london.
All is well and we are having amazing experiences. Stay tuned!!!!!
9.19.2007
9.16.2007
Saved by a banana!
I'm feeling super skittish right now after my encounter with a HUGE baboon! (BTW this isn't a picture of the baboon I encountered) I love monkeys and I'm fascinated by them and I thought it would be really cool to see one while I was here. I just never thought it would be up close and personal.
Hillary and I were unpacking our bags in our outdoor tent in Livingstone when she saw a momma and a baby baboon go by. I was so disappointed I missed them. A few minutes later Hillary left to the office while I finished unpacking. I had just hung a garbage bag on the back of the chair on our little patio outside our tent. There was an empty water bottle and a banana peel in there.
The next thing I knew there was a HUGE male baboon on the step to our tent looking in at me. He was a little bit skittish as was I....we looked at each other. He would move. Then I would move. He didn't seem to care much that I was there....not really afraid. He grabbed my grocery bag off the chair and ripped out the banana peel and ate it. I kept my eyes on him the whole time and was wondering if I should grab my camera or run. I tried to call Hillary but she didn't hear me. No one was around.
By now the baboon wanted more food and he knew I had it. We had a cool interaction yet I was scared to death at the same time. I was wondering what he was going to do next. I tried to untie the tent so I could close it but it was knotted up. The baboon was really jumpy but very forward. I was going to run but I knew he would destroy our tent and who knows maybe he would run off with our passports!
So a few seconds later he came towards me and started to reach to open our tent...mind you we're only about 3 feet away from each other before he walked towards me. I felt trapped. He was almost as tall as me squatting. He had huge strong fingers and gigantic yellow teeth. His eyes were very human like and determined. To say the least my heart was racing.....
So I acted quickly and grabbed a banana off our shelf and threw it out into the grass. He ran after it and started to eat it. I zipped the tent and RAN! I found Hillary and the staff right away They ran so fast towards our tent to throw rocks at the baboon to get him to run away...which he did...after he ate the banana of course.
I didn't realize how scared I was until after it happened. I had no idea that I might have to use my self defense skills to get away from a baboon! We saw the whole family later that night across the river...and he even looked gigantic from a distance.
After a few hours I felt better but I was fairly jumpy and the rest of the night....Hillary was a great sport to put up with me!
Now when I look back on it I can laugh...too bad it wasn't caught on film!
Just wanted to sum up that we saw so many cool animals just by chance. We saw about 5 elephants driving back home last night and ate dinner with the cutest little bush baby....he literally flew out of the tree, landed on our picnic table and started to lick our yogurt lid....not afraid at all.
Then we had the privilege of watching the hippos come down the water last night...they were amazing to watch. The way they would open & close their mouths in the water. We were on edge just in case they decided to climb up the little hill towards us. They're so fast! We found out that they were on the lawn a few hours later. They are one of the most dangerous animals here to people.
This morning we woke up and the elephants were back in our camp this time.....so beautiful. It's so incredible to see them outside of a zoo...where they should be. We also saw a crocodile sun bathing in the afternoon heat. It's so wild to be so close to all of these animals. We are grateful we saw them with out even looking for them!
-gia
Once again I apologize for my horrible grammar and sentence structure. For some reason my brain isn't working properly. I think I'm so engrossed in my experience that I've lost all control over my language skills and typing skills....I just want to keep the stories coming to you......
Hillary and I were unpacking our bags in our outdoor tent in Livingstone when she saw a momma and a baby baboon go by. I was so disappointed I missed them. A few minutes later Hillary left to the office while I finished unpacking. I had just hung a garbage bag on the back of the chair on our little patio outside our tent. There was an empty water bottle and a banana peel in there.
The next thing I knew there was a HUGE male baboon on the step to our tent looking in at me. He was a little bit skittish as was I....we looked at each other. He would move. Then I would move. He didn't seem to care much that I was there....not really afraid. He grabbed my grocery bag off the chair and ripped out the banana peel and ate it. I kept my eyes on him the whole time and was wondering if I should grab my camera or run. I tried to call Hillary but she didn't hear me. No one was around.
By now the baboon wanted more food and he knew I had it. We had a cool interaction yet I was scared to death at the same time. I was wondering what he was going to do next. I tried to untie the tent so I could close it but it was knotted up. The baboon was really jumpy but very forward. I was going to run but I knew he would destroy our tent and who knows maybe he would run off with our passports!
So a few seconds later he came towards me and started to reach to open our tent...mind you we're only about 3 feet away from each other before he walked towards me. I felt trapped. He was almost as tall as me squatting. He had huge strong fingers and gigantic yellow teeth. His eyes were very human like and determined. To say the least my heart was racing.....
So I acted quickly and grabbed a banana off our shelf and threw it out into the grass. He ran after it and started to eat it. I zipped the tent and RAN! I found Hillary and the staff right away They ran so fast towards our tent to throw rocks at the baboon to get him to run away...which he did...after he ate the banana of course.
I didn't realize how scared I was until after it happened. I had no idea that I might have to use my self defense skills to get away from a baboon! We saw the whole family later that night across the river...and he even looked gigantic from a distance.
After a few hours I felt better but I was fairly jumpy and the rest of the night....Hillary was a great sport to put up with me!
Now when I look back on it I can laugh...too bad it wasn't caught on film!
Just wanted to sum up that we saw so many cool animals just by chance. We saw about 5 elephants driving back home last night and ate dinner with the cutest little bush baby....he literally flew out of the tree, landed on our picnic table and started to lick our yogurt lid....not afraid at all.
Then we had the privilege of watching the hippos come down the water last night...they were amazing to watch. The way they would open & close their mouths in the water. We were on edge just in case they decided to climb up the little hill towards us. They're so fast! We found out that they were on the lawn a few hours later. They are one of the most dangerous animals here to people.
This morning we woke up and the elephants were back in our camp this time.....so beautiful. It's so incredible to see them outside of a zoo...where they should be. We also saw a crocodile sun bathing in the afternoon heat. It's so wild to be so close to all of these animals. We are grateful we saw them with out even looking for them!
-gia
Once again I apologize for my horrible grammar and sentence structure. For some reason my brain isn't working properly. I think I'm so engrossed in my experience that I've lost all control over my language skills and typing skills....I just want to keep the stories coming to you......
You know you're in Africa when....
We will be adding to this as we go....
-You look up and come face to face with a very large baboon and you're not at the zoo
-Mosquito nets are all the rage, deet is the #1 seller at the Shoprite
-A hot shower is a blessed event
-"No thank you" and "yes please" are used in the same sentence
-You wake to monkey barks and roosters calling
-People actually say "hello, how are you?" and actually want to hear your answer
-Children play outside and create their own entertainment at all hours of the day
-Walking & biking is the preferred transportation
-Children want to go to school and it is a privilege, not an inconvenience
-There's not a coffee shop on every corner
-Bananas taste like candy
-Using the internet is a luxury
-People hug because it means something special!
-You look up and come face to face with a very large baboon and you're not at the zoo
-Mosquito nets are all the rage, deet is the #1 seller at the Shoprite
-A hot shower is a blessed event
-"No thank you" and "yes please" are used in the same sentence
-You wake to monkey barks and roosters calling
-People actually say "hello, how are you?" and actually want to hear your answer
-Children play outside and create their own entertainment at all hours of the day
-Walking & biking is the preferred transportation
-Children want to go to school and it is a privilege, not an inconvenience
-There's not a coffee shop on every corner
-Bananas taste like candy
-Using the internet is a luxury
-People hug because it means something special!
Speechless
Muzungu is me - I am color of heart, sight and mind
Have you ever had an experience that left you speechless? Not because of shock, but because words would not do it justice. It's like taking a picture of Victoria Falls, one of the 7 wonders of the world, knowing that the photo only captures the moment in time and not the full beauty, majesty and amazement of that moment. This is what I feel when when I think of my time in Africa. Gia and I have filled our days with so many moments, experiences, events, memories, that I will be up for days and nights trying to sort it all out. I'll do my best to summarize for you....
Upon our arrival, the adjustment to the culture took only a day. The Zambian people are so welcoming and open that by Monday, we were ready to dive right into whatever came our way. And we did just that. The Kondwa Center- Angela Malik is an amazing woman. What she has done for the community, her people, the children...wow! And she keeps going. Angela is bright, kind, savvy, sweet, energetic, smart and loving. She is the guardian of N'Gombe Compound. She is a hero of our times!
There is a mural on a very large wall in the school yard that Angela despised.....we are now painting a new mural there, one of children, rainbows, movement and community. We also took liberty to paint other walls with bright colors and designs that make the children happy, singing and wanting to join in! Paint is very expensive here so we have had to improvise and the block wall...well, this is a welcomed challenge that we are relishing in!! I still pinch myself that I am in Africa and am doing art! How cool is this!!!!
As we make our acquatinces at Kondwa - the staff is absolutely beautiful, inside and out, the children are definitely pulling at my heartstrings every time I think of them - we have also made time to meet other people of the community. Paul, Angela's grandson, Aaron, her first born son...both wonderful and we wish to spend more time with them. Marianne - Angela's childhood friend who is a business woman & miner in eastern Zambia.
All our taxi drivers rock! James, Max, Banda - thank you for answering all our crazy questions. Fanelli, Clement, Ruth and Noreen at the guest house, what would we do without you!? In Livingstone, all I can say is that when you come, you have to call Walter. he is our friend, our tour guide and transportation and we have loved every minute with him! He will someday soon be the #1 tour guide in all of Zambia! You rock Walter! Thank you for such a great time! Kelvin & Kelvin at the Maramba Lodge - keep asking questions, save your money and come to the US. Follow your dreams! the Grand canyon awaits you :) Sister Benedicta of Lubasi - you are the heart and soul of the word fundraising and I am inspired by your tireless mission to keep your children safe, well fed and supported in so many wonderful ways!
As I end this, we are typing like mad women in an internet place in Livingstone. Walter is patiently waiting to take us back to the lodge. And I want to buy him a Mosi just because! Tomorrow, we are going to the Lubasi home for children. To meet, play with, observe the ways of the children and staff. Later we plan to get down and boogie with the locals. My heart has been dancing since I got here and now I can really cut loose!
-Hillary
Have you ever had an experience that left you speechless? Not because of shock, but because words would not do it justice. It's like taking a picture of Victoria Falls, one of the 7 wonders of the world, knowing that the photo only captures the moment in time and not the full beauty, majesty and amazement of that moment. This is what I feel when when I think of my time in Africa. Gia and I have filled our days with so many moments, experiences, events, memories, that I will be up for days and nights trying to sort it all out. I'll do my best to summarize for you....
Upon our arrival, the adjustment to the culture took only a day. The Zambian people are so welcoming and open that by Monday, we were ready to dive right into whatever came our way. And we did just that. The Kondwa Center- Angela Malik is an amazing woman. What she has done for the community, her people, the children...wow! And she keeps going. Angela is bright, kind, savvy, sweet, energetic, smart and loving. She is the guardian of N'Gombe Compound. She is a hero of our times!
There is a mural on a very large wall in the school yard that Angela despised.....we are now painting a new mural there, one of children, rainbows, movement and community. We also took liberty to paint other walls with bright colors and designs that make the children happy, singing and wanting to join in! Paint is very expensive here so we have had to improvise and the block wall...well, this is a welcomed challenge that we are relishing in!! I still pinch myself that I am in Africa and am doing art! How cool is this!!!!
As we make our acquatinces at Kondwa - the staff is absolutely beautiful, inside and out, the children are definitely pulling at my heartstrings every time I think of them - we have also made time to meet other people of the community. Paul, Angela's grandson, Aaron, her first born son...both wonderful and we wish to spend more time with them. Marianne - Angela's childhood friend who is a business woman & miner in eastern Zambia.
All our taxi drivers rock! James, Max, Banda - thank you for answering all our crazy questions. Fanelli, Clement, Ruth and Noreen at the guest house, what would we do without you!? In Livingstone, all I can say is that when you come, you have to call Walter. he is our friend, our tour guide and transportation and we have loved every minute with him! He will someday soon be the #1 tour guide in all of Zambia! You rock Walter! Thank you for such a great time! Kelvin & Kelvin at the Maramba Lodge - keep asking questions, save your money and come to the US. Follow your dreams! the Grand canyon awaits you :) Sister Benedicta of Lubasi - you are the heart and soul of the word fundraising and I am inspired by your tireless mission to keep your children safe, well fed and supported in so many wonderful ways!
As I end this, we are typing like mad women in an internet place in Livingstone. Walter is patiently waiting to take us back to the lodge. And I want to buy him a Mosi just because! Tomorrow, we are going to the Lubasi home for children. To meet, play with, observe the ways of the children and staff. Later we plan to get down and boogie with the locals. My heart has been dancing since I got here and now I can really cut loose!
-Hillary
9.13.2007
Eyebrow Ring
I didn't realize that over here the Zambian people don't have their eyebrows pierced. I guess that's not something I really thought about before I came! HA!
So I get a lot of crazy looks and stares. The kids are too cute...they come right out and ask me about it...
Does that hurt?
What is that?
Why did you put that there??
I love kids honesty....no different than at home....except for in the U.S. its common...over here the African people don't have eyebrow rings....
All the kids today at Kondwa were giggling and pointing at it..they're so curious...but they don't have the language to ask me questions about it.....I love it! So if I don't want the attention I put my sunglasses back on.....
Thought you would giggle at that one!
-gia
So I get a lot of crazy looks and stares. The kids are too cute...they come right out and ask me about it...
Does that hurt?
What is that?
Why did you put that there??
I love kids honesty....no different than at home....except for in the U.S. its common...over here the African people don't have eyebrow rings....
All the kids today at Kondwa were giggling and pointing at it..they're so curious...but they don't have the language to ask me questions about it.....I love it! So if I don't want the attention I put my sunglasses back on.....
Thought you would giggle at that one!
-gia
Painting Murals
The Kondwa school is enclosed with big cement brick walls. There are a few murals on some of the panels but most are blank. Angela said she would love if if we could paint some of them while we were here. Since Hillary has the talent and I'm great at following directions we decided that this would be a great way to get us started at the school without anyone feeling like they had to look over us.
We drove to the paint store with Angela and purchased some paint for the project. We used some of the money that was donated to us for our trip. So thank you to everyone that has helped us with our fundraising. We can't wait to show you the photos.
We decided to paint a few butterflies that round a corner and a HUGE heart with wings which we both love at the end of the playground. We're also working on a community of kids playing with a rainbow etc....and we made a happy sunshine that you see when you walk into the school.
There are a lot of kids that come to Kondwa to hang out for lunch (most of them are Kondwa graduates) or they wanted to see what we were doing. They were DYING to paint with us....we had to let them. They were so cute! The next thing we knew there was paint everywhere! They filled in the heart ...dripped all over their heads and clothes no matter how hard we tried to help them out.....they still managed to make a mess....I fit in perfectly.
I think my favorite part about painting with the kids was afterwards....when they needed to wash off. There's hardly any water around for bathing and no clean water in the compound that I know of. I was carrying the paint bucket full of brushes and paint back to dump to refill with fresh water. Before I could get to the trash the kids were bathing in it..dumping it on their heads and washing their hands...I quickly stopped them and brought back fresh water from the sink.
They're not allowed to use the facilities because they're for the school children. So I helped wash off their dirty painted bodies. Anywhere you could put paint they had it....their heads, eyebrows, hair clothes, shoes & feet (most of the children don't have shoes). They let me help them get clean and they were so happy. I did sneak the littlest girl with the wiry crazy braids to the bathroom to get a little sink bath....she's 3 ...her name is Diana....so cute....I decided not to wash her legs or feet because they would be dusty in 2 seconds running around. It's amazing how unfazed the kids are because its all they know. One little boy was pretty upset because someone got paint on the back of his shorts....I did the best I could to help get it off....I'm sure it was probably one of the only pairs he had.
We were so excited to have shared the mural project with the kids. It was a colorful day...gia
We drove to the paint store with Angela and purchased some paint for the project. We used some of the money that was donated to us for our trip. So thank you to everyone that has helped us with our fundraising. We can't wait to show you the photos.
We decided to paint a few butterflies that round a corner and a HUGE heart with wings which we both love at the end of the playground. We're also working on a community of kids playing with a rainbow etc....and we made a happy sunshine that you see when you walk into the school.
There are a lot of kids that come to Kondwa to hang out for lunch (most of them are Kondwa graduates) or they wanted to see what we were doing. They were DYING to paint with us....we had to let them. They were so cute! The next thing we knew there was paint everywhere! They filled in the heart ...dripped all over their heads and clothes no matter how hard we tried to help them out.....they still managed to make a mess....I fit in perfectly.
I think my favorite part about painting with the kids was afterwards....when they needed to wash off. There's hardly any water around for bathing and no clean water in the compound that I know of. I was carrying the paint bucket full of brushes and paint back to dump to refill with fresh water. Before I could get to the trash the kids were bathing in it..dumping it on their heads and washing their hands...I quickly stopped them and brought back fresh water from the sink.
They're not allowed to use the facilities because they're for the school children. So I helped wash off their dirty painted bodies. Anywhere you could put paint they had it....their heads, eyebrows, hair clothes, shoes & feet (most of the children don't have shoes). They let me help them get clean and they were so happy. I did sneak the littlest girl with the wiry crazy braids to the bathroom to get a little sink bath....she's 3 ...her name is Diana....so cute....I decided not to wash her legs or feet because they would be dusty in 2 seconds running around. It's amazing how unfazed the kids are because its all they know. One little boy was pretty upset because someone got paint on the back of his shorts....I did the best I could to help get it off....I'm sure it was probably one of the only pairs he had.
We were so excited to have shared the mural project with the kids. It was a colorful day...gia
Overview so far....
We have had many adventures since we've been here and it's so hard to try and write them all down...I'm going to sum them up a bit and then we are going to blog thoughts....stories...in random order from our experiences so far...enjoy! - gia
Sunday, Sept 9th
-We had the privilege of being invited to a community meeting with Angela
-We met many influential, involved people in the area.
-We joined them in their church meeting and listened to their scriptures and failed to participate in the discussions....but we were great listeners!
-We tried our first African meal....we were nervous to go first because we don't eat the same diet and are both concerned about getting sick...thank goodness they have pizza here! The owner of the house has 2 restaurants and she is an incredible cook! Thank you Mable! Hillary tried the chicken. I don't eat meat.
-We continued on to Angela's house for some incredible discusions....I love this woman already!
- We met Angela's adorable grandson, Paul he's 5...we bonded quickly playing trucks something I'm used to with my son, Tobin.
- We watched a little bit of Prison Break, my new favorite show with Angela's first born son, Aaron.
Monday, Sept 10th
- up 6 am....yes I'm turning into a morning girl...don't faint...for those of you that know how much of a night owl I am....it's the heat!
- Angela picked us up, drove to Kondwa Day Center and introduced us to the children and staff
- We found our first project...to paint murals in the playground/entrance to the school
- We use some of the money that was given to us by some of you to buy colorful paint for the murals...you will love the pictures...thank you!! You are a part of the center now.
- We ate Nashima for the first time....passed on the meat that came with it...it was a real treat for the kids to have meat
- Everyone drinks coke out of glass bottles
- Met Angela's old childhood friend MaryAnne, a miner, she shared so many stories with us
- Little girl & her grandfather come to say goodbye she was off to an orphanage....leaving Kondwa to have a place that she can live at where they can take care of her
- Wanting to take so many photos...I love photography but it is difficult because it is invasive and feels rude.....so taking so many pictures with my mind. We will bring our Polaroid soon so we can share the photos with the locals....
Tuesday, Sept 11th
- We take the short cut trail and walk to Kondwa today
- We experience the Ngombe compound and people for the first time up close.
- More painting on the murals
- Play with children at recess...teach London bridges and ring around the rosie...they love to hold our hands and they actually fight over it
- We are falling in love with the kids....so adorable and loving
- We meet some of the women from the widows group that Angela belongs to. ...they are at the school shelling peanuts to make peanut butter
- walk home...kids pass us and giggle as we go by.....they say, "How are you?....Fine.."
- go out to our first dinner....find out we're at the restaurant where Bill Clinton ate one month ago....our waiter was excited he met him
- We find out Anita Roddick died
- We also remember 9-11
- pack to leave to Livingstone tomorrow
Wednesday, Sept. 12th
- leave 6:00am to catch the luxury bus to Livingstone....stories to come!
-6 hours later we arrive
- check in the Maramba lodge...our tents await...its really hot here!
- Gia's encounter with a baboon...yeah laugh a little...more to come...
- Meet Kalvin & Kalvin...yes they have the same name....the chefs at the lodge
- Share similarities and differences with Kalvin's for a few hours....amazing conversations
- look for hippos, crocodiles near our lodge....didn't see any yet
- rig up our mosquito net so Hillary can rest well....she's a bit freaked by malaria....more to come on that one!
- Sleep
Thursday, Sept. 13th
- open air shower
- hot tea....its chilly
- meet Walter our tour guide...that was recommended by Leah & Shea...he's perfect...we feel spoiled!
- Visit Lubasi orphanage
- Visit Victoria Falls
- Hike
- Baboons
- watch bungee jumpers
AND....here we are.....stories will follow.......gia
Sunday, Sept 9th
-We had the privilege of being invited to a community meeting with Angela
-We met many influential, involved people in the area.
-We joined them in their church meeting and listened to their scriptures and failed to participate in the discussions....but we were great listeners!
-We tried our first African meal....we were nervous to go first because we don't eat the same diet and are both concerned about getting sick...thank goodness they have pizza here! The owner of the house has 2 restaurants and she is an incredible cook! Thank you Mable! Hillary tried the chicken. I don't eat meat.
-We continued on to Angela's house for some incredible discusions....I love this woman already!
- We met Angela's adorable grandson, Paul he's 5...we bonded quickly playing trucks something I'm used to with my son, Tobin.
- We watched a little bit of Prison Break, my new favorite show with Angela's first born son, Aaron.
Monday, Sept 10th
- up 6 am....yes I'm turning into a morning girl...don't faint...for those of you that know how much of a night owl I am....it's the heat!
- Angela picked us up, drove to Kondwa Day Center and introduced us to the children and staff
- We found our first project...to paint murals in the playground/entrance to the school
- We use some of the money that was given to us by some of you to buy colorful paint for the murals...you will love the pictures...thank you!! You are a part of the center now.
- We ate Nashima for the first time....passed on the meat that came with it...it was a real treat for the kids to have meat
- Everyone drinks coke out of glass bottles
- Met Angela's old childhood friend MaryAnne, a miner, she shared so many stories with us
- Little girl & her grandfather come to say goodbye she was off to an orphanage....leaving Kondwa to have a place that she can live at where they can take care of her
- Wanting to take so many photos...I love photography but it is difficult because it is invasive and feels rude.....so taking so many pictures with my mind. We will bring our Polaroid soon so we can share the photos with the locals....
Tuesday, Sept 11th
- We take the short cut trail and walk to Kondwa today
- We experience the Ngombe compound and people for the first time up close.
- More painting on the murals
- Play with children at recess...teach London bridges and ring around the rosie...they love to hold our hands and they actually fight over it
- We are falling in love with the kids....so adorable and loving
- We meet some of the women from the widows group that Angela belongs to. ...they are at the school shelling peanuts to make peanut butter
- walk home...kids pass us and giggle as we go by.....they say, "How are you?....Fine.."
- go out to our first dinner....find out we're at the restaurant where Bill Clinton ate one month ago....our waiter was excited he met him
- We find out Anita Roddick died
- We also remember 9-11
- pack to leave to Livingstone tomorrow
Wednesday, Sept. 12th
- leave 6:00am to catch the luxury bus to Livingstone....stories to come!
-6 hours later we arrive
- check in the Maramba lodge...our tents await...its really hot here!
- Gia's encounter with a baboon...yeah laugh a little...more to come...
- Meet Kalvin & Kalvin...yes they have the same name....the chefs at the lodge
- Share similarities and differences with Kalvin's for a few hours....amazing conversations
- look for hippos, crocodiles near our lodge....didn't see any yet
- rig up our mosquito net so Hillary can rest well....she's a bit freaked by malaria....more to come on that one!
- Sleep
Thursday, Sept. 13th
- open air shower
- hot tea....its chilly
- meet Walter our tour guide...that was recommended by Leah & Shea...he's perfect...we feel spoiled!
- Visit Lubasi orphanage
- Visit Victoria Falls
- Hike
- Baboons
- watch bungee jumpers
AND....here we are.....stories will follow.......gia
Meeting Mrs. Malik
I forgot to mention that after we passed out at our guest house we awoke what seemed like the middle of the night (we found out later it was only 6pm) to a light tapping on our door.
We heard the sweet voice of Mrs. Angela Malik on the other side. We slowly opened the door to the most radiant smile and open arms welcoming us to Zambia. Who is Mrs. Malik? Angela Malik is the incredible woman that has the heart of a saint. She saw a neeed in her community where she lived and decided to do something about it. Over time...the Kondwa Center was built. We will share the story with you at a later time.
As you know we came here to work with Angela and her students at the Kondwa Day Center. We were so excited to finally meet her. She has had quite a few visitors this summer and we didn't want to get in her way...so we weren't sure of what to expect....
Mrs. Malik is the definition of kindness and love....she is an inspiration!
- gia
We heard the sweet voice of Mrs. Angela Malik on the other side. We slowly opened the door to the most radiant smile and open arms welcoming us to Zambia. Who is Mrs. Malik? Angela Malik is the incredible woman that has the heart of a saint. She saw a neeed in her community where she lived and decided to do something about it. Over time...the Kondwa Center was built. We will share the story with you at a later time.
As you know we came here to work with Angela and her students at the Kondwa Day Center. We were so excited to finally meet her. She has had quite a few visitors this summer and we didn't want to get in her way...so we weren't sure of what to expect....
Mrs. Malik is the definition of kindness and love....she is an inspiration!
- gia
When we awoke.....
I'm here!! And it's so crazy it still hasn't really hit me...not sure when it will. I'm sitting here outside on a rusty white wire chair in the sun with a gentle breeze blowing. The sun is warm but not too hot at the moment.I'm a little antsy because I want to go out and explore everything. But we're not really sure of where we are, where to go or if it's safe. We quickly decided to go for a little walk outside the guest house to see what was around us.
We were surprised at all of the gigantic walls that surround most of the houses right here. The roads are dry and dusty but its very clean. There are beautiful pink flowers, cactus and some tall grass. Hillary feels at home with the similar vegetation to Arizona. Me...the mountain girl....I'm hot.
We saw quite a few people walking around. Most people didn't greet us or even smile....some did. We felt noticed yet not uncomfortable at all. We've realized now that the more settled we are here the more the Zambian people smile and greet us. I think it was us who we're hesitant not them.
We could see other communities near by but decided to ask Angela if it's ok to go there. We passed people on bikes and saw some kids playing...most of them are barefoot. We passed a few egg stands.
The winds died down and the heat became intense so we headed back. It felt so good to get out....I definitely feel like I'm in Africa now.
- gia
We were surprised at all of the gigantic walls that surround most of the houses right here. The roads are dry and dusty but its very clean. There are beautiful pink flowers, cactus and some tall grass. Hillary feels at home with the similar vegetation to Arizona. Me...the mountain girl....I'm hot.
We saw quite a few people walking around. Most people didn't greet us or even smile....some did. We felt noticed yet not uncomfortable at all. We've realized now that the more settled we are here the more the Zambian people smile and greet us. I think it was us who we're hesitant not them.
We could see other communities near by but decided to ask Angela if it's ok to go there. We passed people on bikes and saw some kids playing...most of them are barefoot. We passed a few egg stands.
The winds died down and the heat became intense so we headed back. It felt so good to get out....I definitely feel like I'm in Africa now.
- gia
Welcome to Zambia!
We made it!
We flew from London to Johannesburg...had a 2 hour layover then were off to Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.
We are in good spirits....just tired. It's hot here. Most people visit here in June & July...not us, we're here in the beginning of their hot season! They have 2 seasons the rainy season and the hot season. We waited in the long customs lines, claimed our bags, and exchanged our money from dollars to Kwachas. The exchange rate is about $1.00 to $4,000 kw. The taxi drivers were right inside the airport eager to take us to our guest house. It was very smooth.
I wasn't quite sure of what to expect when I got here....but the visions I had in my head were quite different from what we saw outside. I had pictured more of a busy city downtown environment...lots of people, cars, some buildings and chaos. But it was calm, quiet, and not crowded at all. Very peaceful and welcoming. Our taxi drivers name is James.
We threw our bags in the back (they all arrived) and headed to our guest house. In Africa like most parts of the world they drive on the other side of the street. I'm still trying to get used to it....I keep trying to get into the drivers side....they giggle at me.
We passed people walking, biking and some cars and trucks. We saw billboards and lots of brush...dry, dry land. The taxi ride only took about 15-20 min. We finally passed the University to turn down the road to the Zebra Guest house where we are staying. The closer we got the more people we saw. It still hasn't really hit me that we are here. I think I was just absorbing everything...taking it all in.....we finally rounded a corner and saw a HUGE zebra....we are here.
We met the friendly staff, went to our room then I crashed out! I barely remember Hillary asking me where my money was to pay for the lodging...well at least that's what she said she was doing with it! I hand her my wallet and I'm off in dreamland...in Africa.
- gia
We flew from London to Johannesburg...had a 2 hour layover then were off to Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.
We are in good spirits....just tired. It's hot here. Most people visit here in June & July...not us, we're here in the beginning of their hot season! They have 2 seasons the rainy season and the hot season. We waited in the long customs lines, claimed our bags, and exchanged our money from dollars to Kwachas. The exchange rate is about $1.00 to $4,000 kw. The taxi drivers were right inside the airport eager to take us to our guest house. It was very smooth.
I wasn't quite sure of what to expect when I got here....but the visions I had in my head were quite different from what we saw outside. I had pictured more of a busy city downtown environment...lots of people, cars, some buildings and chaos. But it was calm, quiet, and not crowded at all. Very peaceful and welcoming. Our taxi drivers name is James.
We threw our bags in the back (they all arrived) and headed to our guest house. In Africa like most parts of the world they drive on the other side of the street. I'm still trying to get used to it....I keep trying to get into the drivers side....they giggle at me.
We passed people walking, biking and some cars and trucks. We saw billboards and lots of brush...dry, dry land. The taxi ride only took about 15-20 min. We finally passed the University to turn down the road to the Zebra Guest house where we are staying. The closer we got the more people we saw. It still hasn't really hit me that we are here. I think I was just absorbing everything...taking it all in.....we finally rounded a corner and saw a HUGE zebra....we are here.
We met the friendly staff, went to our room then I crashed out! I barely remember Hillary asking me where my money was to pay for the lodging...well at least that's what she said she was doing with it! I hand her my wallet and I'm off in dreamland...in Africa.
- gia
The journey....
Sooooo......I have some time to sit and email....I will try and back track and post some stories from our journey so far....some of the inserts will be from e-mails sent home and others are from my journal....get ready to read! I apologize for the delay in our updates....gia
We left Reno....about 30 min late due to stormy weather in Chicago. And when it was time to land they had us do circles in the sky because there was too much traffic to land. It was a bit bumpy but worth it. It was so beautiful because of the storms....the clouds were AMAZING...the sun was popping through and we even saw a rainbow. We would have missed our connecting flight but it was delayed by 40 min due to weather. Whew....close call....
Once we landed we boarded the next plain right away then waited another 45min or so for other passengers that were coming in late from their connecting flights. It was definitely nice to have a huge cushion of time here so we didn't worry much about the delays.
Our flight to London was perfect....smooth and roomy enough..sometimes its nice to have short legs..hee..hee. We talked for awhile then we both passed out. I'm exhausted. All the months of running around planning and wondering and dreaming about this trip have caught up with me. I could have easily slept for 6 more hours.....but we landed.
Once we arrived at Heathrow airport we were told to walk down this crazy maze to the customs counter. We got there finally and the woman working told us to fill out the slips to claim our bags and recheck them....when we were told early not to. So went back to fill out the forms walked up to the counter and spoke to a gentleman this time. He said, "Why did you fill this out? You don't need to go through customs...so go back to where you came from, catch the bus to the other terminal and through security. But before you do...make sure you take your purse and put everything into one bag...it doesn't matter how big it is...just make sure it's all in one." So we're a bit surprised but we listen, leave the line, catch the bus and re-pack our backpacks.
Just so you know we each brought a check on bag that has items we could live without if they don't arrive in Zambia...but our carry on is EVERYTHING we want to have with us..cameras, clothes, food, mosquito net, shoes, art supplies for the kids etc...so they are packed full already. Somehow we shove, push and stomp all of our other items into the bags so we can continue through the security line.
Just as we're through another worker comes up and says to us, "Your bags are way too big!They're not going to let you through." Feeling a bit frustrated we are trying to figure out what to do. ....when ANOTHER worker walks up and says, "Do you have another little bag, like a purse? You should take some items out of your backpacks and put your stuff back in your purse then you'll be fine, it's the size of the bag that matters not how many!" AHHHH!! We were about to die so we re-packed one more time then got in the security line. We waited for about 2 hours total to get finally get through....WHEW we made it!
So here we are...hanging out...too tired to walk around with our heavy packs and too goofy to take a nap. We're waiting to sleep on the plane so we can try to be on the right time later. I need Joes coffee chai tea right about now! HA! We're both really excited to keep going...and it feels so strange to be here in London at the same time. I can't believe we're off to Africa next...I think it's going to be a HUGE culture shock.
We left Reno....about 30 min late due to stormy weather in Chicago. And when it was time to land they had us do circles in the sky because there was too much traffic to land. It was a bit bumpy but worth it. It was so beautiful because of the storms....the clouds were AMAZING...the sun was popping through and we even saw a rainbow. We would have missed our connecting flight but it was delayed by 40 min due to weather. Whew....close call....
Once we landed we boarded the next plain right away then waited another 45min or so for other passengers that were coming in late from their connecting flights. It was definitely nice to have a huge cushion of time here so we didn't worry much about the delays.
Our flight to London was perfect....smooth and roomy enough..sometimes its nice to have short legs..hee..hee. We talked for awhile then we both passed out. I'm exhausted. All the months of running around planning and wondering and dreaming about this trip have caught up with me. I could have easily slept for 6 more hours.....but we landed.
Once we arrived at Heathrow airport we were told to walk down this crazy maze to the customs counter. We got there finally and the woman working told us to fill out the slips to claim our bags and recheck them....when we were told early not to. So went back to fill out the forms walked up to the counter and spoke to a gentleman this time. He said, "Why did you fill this out? You don't need to go through customs...so go back to where you came from, catch the bus to the other terminal and through security. But before you do...make sure you take your purse and put everything into one bag...it doesn't matter how big it is...just make sure it's all in one." So we're a bit surprised but we listen, leave the line, catch the bus and re-pack our backpacks.
Just so you know we each brought a check on bag that has items we could live without if they don't arrive in Zambia...but our carry on is EVERYTHING we want to have with us..cameras, clothes, food, mosquito net, shoes, art supplies for the kids etc...so they are packed full already. Somehow we shove, push and stomp all of our other items into the bags so we can continue through the security line.
Just as we're through another worker comes up and says to us, "Your bags are way too big!They're not going to let you through." Feeling a bit frustrated we are trying to figure out what to do. ....when ANOTHER worker walks up and says, "Do you have another little bag, like a purse? You should take some items out of your backpacks and put your stuff back in your purse then you'll be fine, it's the size of the bag that matters not how many!" AHHHH!! We were about to die so we re-packed one more time then got in the security line. We waited for about 2 hours total to get finally get through....WHEW we made it!
So here we are...hanging out...too tired to walk around with our heavy packs and too goofy to take a nap. We're waiting to sleep on the plane so we can try to be on the right time later. I need Joes coffee chai tea right about now! HA! We're both really excited to keep going...and it feels so strange to be here in London at the same time. I can't believe we're off to Africa next...I think it's going to be a HUGE culture shock.
9.11.2007
"Hallo" from Africa!
Hello everyone...we are here!!
I have so much to share with all of you. This is the first time I have had a chance to get to the internet cafe and now it is getting dark and we must go back to our guest house. I wanted to at least post a little something to say that we made it...we're well and we are enjoying ourselves.
Zambia is amazing...the people are welcoming and we LOVE Angela the director of the Kondwa Center. We have been busy working there painting murals in the entrance of the school and the children's playground....photos to come....and we love the children!
We are both a bit shocked right now because we just got word that Anita Roddick died. She had a brain hemorrhage. We are so sad....in fact if I think about it too much I will cry. Anita was not only the founder of The Body Shop, the company we work for but she was a woman that I admire and love and relate to. She will always be with me. We are so grateful to have talked to her in August about our trip....I'm still in disbelief.....blessings to her and her family and to any of you that feel as I do....
With that said....I have to go....more soon.....love to all of you....gia
I have so much to share with all of you. This is the first time I have had a chance to get to the internet cafe and now it is getting dark and we must go back to our guest house. I wanted to at least post a little something to say that we made it...we're well and we are enjoying ourselves.
Zambia is amazing...the people are welcoming and we LOVE Angela the director of the Kondwa Center. We have been busy working there painting murals in the entrance of the school and the children's playground....photos to come....and we love the children!
We are both a bit shocked right now because we just got word that Anita Roddick died. She had a brain hemorrhage. We are so sad....in fact if I think about it too much I will cry. Anita was not only the founder of The Body Shop, the company we work for but she was a woman that I admire and love and relate to. She will always be with me. We are so grateful to have talked to her in August about our trip....I'm still in disbelief.....blessings to her and her family and to any of you that feel as I do....
With that said....I have to go....more soon.....love to all of you....gia
9.06.2007
This is it!
So, this is it! After 6 months of planning, making piles of stuff, researching, emailing, phone calls, the day is finally here. I'm over the shock and numb with anticipation.....of what I will see, experience and bring with me into the rest of my life. OK, I'm in a swirling realm of emotion (haven't started crying today ...yet!) It was hard to leave my family yesterday. My life revolves around them and it is strange not being with them. I am also very blessed to be so welcomed into Gia's surroundings and family. Justin and Tobin are great, cool, at peace with life and way too cute! Gia's parents, Judy & Skip are divine, sweet. gracious, smart people that sooo love Gia and her 2 men. I have absolutely enjoyed my time here in Truckee/Reno. Gia's home is full of light & love, just like her! Thank you for sharing birthday dinner with me! My journey began when Gia called me about going and now we are setting out for the next leg of this great adventure. Off we go....Chicago....London....Johannesburg....LUSAKA! We'll blog again soon! Love, Hillary
Hillary's HERE!
Wow...it's actually happening...we're off tomorrow...well technically today...I have to go to bed! Hillary flew in this afternoon and joined me in my last self defense class...then helped celebrate my mom's birthday & finally met my family! Happy birthday mom!! My awesome parents drove down from Washington to help with Tobin. Thank You!!
OK...off to bed and I guess I'd better finish packing...HA!
-gia
9.04.2007
True Map
LOVE THIS!! by one of my favorite writers/poets....Brian Andreas of Story People..enjoy! -gia
This is the Story of the Day called - True Map
There is no one who comes here that does not know this is a true map of the world, with you there in the center, making home for us all.
This is the Story of the Day called - True Map
There is no one who comes here that does not know this is a true map of the world, with you there in the center, making home for us all.
9.03.2007
Are you excited??
I think one of the hardest parts of preparing for this trip is dealing with my crazy thought process. I’m one of those people who constantly thinks about other people…what they have and more importantly what they don’t. The basic stuff…you know…like food, water, clean clothes to wear, a healthy body, a family that loves them, a safe place to live and people that believe in them.
I truly have an amazing life and such incredible people surrounding me. I am so blessed. I know that my purpose in this world is to be a voice for those that need someone to help them speak and be heard. To be a humanitarian advocate…if you will…is there such a thing?? Is that the right word? Writers out there…help me out…..
Quite often I find myself feeling guilty for being able to have extra things in my life…to live in a beautiful place and home and to be able to afford to work for myself and stay home with our son. I’m definitely much better than I used to be at being able to have compassion for other people and to appreciate the things I have in my life at the same time…although it can be an inner struggle sometimes.
So its no surprise to me that while I’m preparing for our trip and planning things to bring & pack etc….that I freeze up and feel overwhelmed with guilt and sadness at times. For example…. I just climbed into bed to write a few thank you notes and I noticed how beautiful the stationary is that I’m writing on. And all I could think about is the cost of the cards (which was about $18) when 80% of the people in Africa are living on less than US$ 1 per day. I ask myself how that is possible…and why is it OK? It’s not OK with me. It shouldn't be OK with anyone.
Call me crazy…call me deep but I’m sharing all of this with you to give you a little insight into my soul into my the heart of who I am. So when people ask me if I’m getting excited for my trip…I hesitate to answer…because excited isn’t the right word. I’m ready to go and at the same time I’m trying to prepare myself for the unknown…for the culture shock and for the poverty I’m going to see. I know it will a beautiful journey and I know it will also change my life forever. One of my friends said it so well…he said, “I can’t wait to meet the new Gia when you get back.” And to be honest…neither can I.
So I guess I’m more grateful than excited and I’m a little bit in disbelief that I’m actually going. I’ve imagined this trip for so long…and it's almost here......
Goodnight friends….gia
I truly have an amazing life and such incredible people surrounding me. I am so blessed. I know that my purpose in this world is to be a voice for those that need someone to help them speak and be heard. To be a humanitarian advocate…if you will…is there such a thing?? Is that the right word? Writers out there…help me out…..
Quite often I find myself feeling guilty for being able to have extra things in my life…to live in a beautiful place and home and to be able to afford to work for myself and stay home with our son. I’m definitely much better than I used to be at being able to have compassion for other people and to appreciate the things I have in my life at the same time…although it can be an inner struggle sometimes.
So its no surprise to me that while I’m preparing for our trip and planning things to bring & pack etc….that I freeze up and feel overwhelmed with guilt and sadness at times. For example…. I just climbed into bed to write a few thank you notes and I noticed how beautiful the stationary is that I’m writing on. And all I could think about is the cost of the cards (which was about $18) when 80% of the people in Africa are living on less than US$ 1 per day. I ask myself how that is possible…and why is it OK? It’s not OK with me. It shouldn't be OK with anyone.
Call me crazy…call me deep but I’m sharing all of this with you to give you a little insight into my soul into my the heart of who I am. So when people ask me if I’m getting excited for my trip…I hesitate to answer…because excited isn’t the right word. I’m ready to go and at the same time I’m trying to prepare myself for the unknown…for the culture shock and for the poverty I’m going to see. I know it will a beautiful journey and I know it will also change my life forever. One of my friends said it so well…he said, “I can’t wait to meet the new Gia when you get back.” And to be honest…neither can I.
So I guess I’m more grateful than excited and I’m a little bit in disbelief that I’m actually going. I’ve imagined this trip for so long…and it's almost here......
Goodnight friends….gia
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