Countdown to Africa Trip 5 Days
September 26, 2008 4:46 pm Africa Trip
I have been sooo busy getting ready for my trip. I still feel like I have a hundred things to do. I will get them done and next Thursday will be steeling myself for a 16+ hours in a plane and I don’t know how many waiting in airports. Well maybe I can blog while I am waiting.
It is amazing how many people react so positively when I tell them what I am doing. Well maybe not so amazing. Many people feel it is so important to reach out and help others even (or perhaps more so) at times like these when things are tough for so many. Many of the people who I talk to are trying their best to keep their head above water and still have time to help others. Somehow it makes you feel so good and takes your mind off whatever is worring you.
I have been trying to get permission to teach volunteers in Africa about how to do HIV testing and counseling. I may also teach disaster preparedness.
In terms of the Children of the Rising Sun Orphanage, I have found out that they have 1000 students that come to the school that is part of the complex. My mind boggles at that number, I can see myself with all those kids…. Oh well one step at a time.
I have been trying to buy small (really small) toys at garage sales and a great rummage sale I hit today. When communicating with the staff at the orphanages and outreach it becomes clear they need the money for food, clothing and medicine, thus my hunt for small toys. I must say I think my suitcases are going to be full. Although to be honest I am not packed.
I want to thank all my friends, coworkers and fellow members of Asbury First United Methodist Church, and Braddock Bay Bird Observatory for generous donations. Because of them I have $1500.00 to give to the orphanages.
Well I’m off to attend to my to do list. I will be blogging once a week from Africa but will try to get another post up before I go.
