Friday, September 3, 2010

The Real Deal

Day 2 is almost over, and things are feeling a little different than yesterday. Today, we visited "The Good Hope" orphanage in Arusha. Hassan was there to meet us at the gate and take us on a tour of the property. It is clear to see a difference between the accommodations at Havilah, and the property at "The Good Hope". Although they are almost ready to open a new phase of the orphanage, there seems to be a great deal of poverty in the surrounding area, which has a real impact on the children there.

A highlight of our day was reuniting with the children that remembered us from our visit in April! The children greeted us with the same big smiles that have stayed with me for the past 5 months. As Hassan showed us some of the new classrooms that are being built, Sonya handed out balloons to the children, which absolutely made their day!

After leaving "The Good Hope", we made our way to the Cultural Center in downtown Arusha. There, the group was able to see different artwork, jewelry, and Massai weapons and sculptures that showed them a little more about the culture and history of the people of Tanzania. We had a wonderful dinner at the Coffee Lodge, where everyone shared the diverse food that they had there.

After doing a little "bargain shopping" at the Massai Market", we went back to the UAACC for dinner. Pete was gracious enough to share his documentary "A Panther in Africa" with everyone. There was a lengthy discussion about Pete's history and how he came to do this wonderful work here in Tanzania.

We have an extremely talented photographer with us, Jessica Lorraine, who has taken some AMAZING photographs while we have been here. Please check out some of the photos at her BLOG

6 comments:

  1. Wow! I loved seeing the pictures on Jessica's blog! The pictures of Cradle of Love were so moving! I loved seeing those bright eyes and beautiful faces!! Seeing the little ones all lined up at the kitchen counter was so cute too! Thank you for sharing that link. Good Hope Orphanage is a sobering place, being in the center of the city! It seems so sad until you see those sweet kids! I am sure they were the highlight of the day!!! Did anyone buy some kuzuri beads at the cultural center? (not sure if I spelled it right?) How are all the kids at Pete's place? How is Niao (the Masaii girl)? Is she learning English? Have you shocked her by wearing any short shorts? ;-)
    Well, I am praying for all of you and your trip! Take care! Love Beth

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  2. I just left Jessica's blog and so enjoyed the pictures. It seems like you really started running when you got there...so much to accomplish in such a short time. May the Lord bless you in so many ways for being a blessing to others. I am so enjoying being a part of your experience through the blog. I am looking forward to tomorrow and your new experiences. Love, moms

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  3. Your lives are being changed. Prepare to make a Difference. For God has a plan for you. I continue to lift you up in prayer.

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  4. The work you are doing there is amazing. I'll keep you in my prayers. We love you all.

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  5. Praying for you guys and looking forward to seeing the video. Blessings!

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