I have been so impressed with how friendly everyone we have come into contact with. It almost makes me question if the south really is the friendliest place in the country... almost! :) Everyone is welcoming, answers questions and always greets us with a smile on their face. This morning, after our meal in the dinner where Tom Hanks first learned about tiramisu, we walked around the market making purchases for our week on Orcas Island. I got free samples of honey and cheese and I enjoyed listening to the advise and opinion of the vendors.
We decided to go over to West Seattle, sort of what we stare at from our hotel. It is accessible by a thirty minute or so cab ride, or, as we chose, a 15 minute ferry, from which, you have a beautiful view of the city.
We enjoyed strolling down the sidewalks surrounded by people on skateboards, bikes and roller blades. In many ways, the sunny weather, the people watching, the ocean water and the exercising, it reminded me of Venice Beach in LA. After we began walking towards the central part of the area, we began to realize we were in for much more than we had expected. A pirate festival was going on! Pirates had come onto shore, bringing with them giant inflatable ships, hats, eye patches, swords and of course an interesting crowd of people. The people watching today was well worth the cost of the ferry!
Also on this peninsula was an old, but preserved light house. I have always had a fascination with light houses. Perhaps it is their beauty, and the fact that they somehow look regal, but I think for me, it all goes back to hope. Maybe, on a dark night, this light house has provided hope for a lost soul out in the water. Something about the power of light and hope on a dark night, just brings a smile to my face.
On the peninsula, I also saw a two-person bike, like the one that my friends and I had rented on Lido last year. It brought back some wonderful memories of trying to steer the odd little vehicle down narrow streets, the steering wheel that in fact did nothing and the difficult task of pedaling up even the smallest of inclinations. Yes, even just seeing that bike made me laugh to remember all of the good laughs we had together last summer.
Traveling helps me to relive and remember my other travel experiences; I guess that is why I will never stop traveling!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
To Market!
I love walking through markets. I don't always have to buy something, it is more the experience. The people. The aromas. The life in the market. I love seeing people as they purchase fresh foods for their dinner, or for a special occasion. I am always impressed with the people who set up and take down all of the beautiful foods each morning and evening, what dedication. I didn't know what to expect in Seattle, but I have certainly found some great places!
We are staying at a wonderful Inn that is right next to a very large market. This market is famous for their "fish throwers." These men have one of the smelliest jobs around, and yet they have made it fun. They yell and sing and throw fish back and forth, it's a pleasure to watch someone who really loves what he/she is doing. The flowers in this market are astounding, beautifully arranged and incredibly affordable. I know if I lived this close to a market with flowers like these, I would have a fresh arrangement on my table at least once a week.
During our exploration in the market I also got to sample "Oh My God" Peaches, dark chocolate pasta, balsamic vinegar, honey from a straw, olive oils and breads. It was all wonderful, and who doesn't love a "shopping day" where you can taste your way through the store?
We wandered around the city the rest of the day, to Pioneer Square and Chinatown, then down to the water. I am so impressed with how clean this large city is. Not only is there not a lot of trash, but I don't even feel that much smog. I am also surprised with the very large population of homeless people wandering the streets. A city that sees rain most of the year does not seem like a place where one without a roof over his/her head would want to be. On the other hand though, seeing so many homeless people makes me think that the people of Seattle are a warm, welcoming bunch who give and take care of those around them. We have not felt unsafe at all, but maybe a little uncomfortable (probably caused by guilt).
One of my favorite stops during the day was at an old book store. No, it was not a store necessarily for old books, just a book store that had been there for decades. I loved walking on the worn hardwood floors that creaked, and rubbing the wooden shelves that were smooth from all the hands that had searched for the perfect book. It is neat to be in a place that you can tell has been loved and cherished by many for so long.
During our stroll through the market, we purchased some local cheeses, fresh breads, and local wines. Our hotel has a wonderful veranda, where we found a table and toasted the sunset with our delicious purchases. It was a beautiful way to end a great day!
This morning, we drove east of the city to some beautiful falls. The falls were breath-taking, but what was even more incredible was the woods on the way to the falls. The hike was quite strenuous at times, but through an old forest with huge, moss-covered trees and ferns that often equaled my height. It was quiet in the forest, and the path was well worn from many previous travelers.
On our drive home, we stopped at a winery, Chateau St. Michelle and learned a little bit more about the wine-making process, which I still don't really understand, although I have heard the process many times. Most of the wineries here actually grow the grapes in a different part of the state, a dryer area. So, we got to see the winery, but not the actual vineyard.
We all have our addictions, whether they be good or bad. I know I am addicted to Facebook, and honey. For some it is alcohol, shopping or even trivia games. The people of Seattle are addicted to coffee. I have never seen so many coffee places. Not just Starbucks, but what seems like thousands of others! We couldn't drive a mile today without passing four or five coffee places. There is at least one on every block in the city - it is really amazing. I guess it is a shame that I don't like coffee.
We are staying at a wonderful Inn that is right next to a very large market. This market is famous for their "fish throwers." These men have one of the smelliest jobs around, and yet they have made it fun. They yell and sing and throw fish back and forth, it's a pleasure to watch someone who really loves what he/she is doing. The flowers in this market are astounding, beautifully arranged and incredibly affordable. I know if I lived this close to a market with flowers like these, I would have a fresh arrangement on my table at least once a week.
During our exploration in the market I also got to sample "Oh My God" Peaches, dark chocolate pasta, balsamic vinegar, honey from a straw, olive oils and breads. It was all wonderful, and who doesn't love a "shopping day" where you can taste your way through the store?
We wandered around the city the rest of the day, to Pioneer Square and Chinatown, then down to the water. I am so impressed with how clean this large city is. Not only is there not a lot of trash, but I don't even feel that much smog. I am also surprised with the very large population of homeless people wandering the streets. A city that sees rain most of the year does not seem like a place where one without a roof over his/her head would want to be. On the other hand though, seeing so many homeless people makes me think that the people of Seattle are a warm, welcoming bunch who give and take care of those around them. We have not felt unsafe at all, but maybe a little uncomfortable (probably caused by guilt).
One of my favorite stops during the day was at an old book store. No, it was not a store necessarily for old books, just a book store that had been there for decades. I loved walking on the worn hardwood floors that creaked, and rubbing the wooden shelves that were smooth from all the hands that had searched for the perfect book. It is neat to be in a place that you can tell has been loved and cherished by many for so long.
During our stroll through the market, we purchased some local cheeses, fresh breads, and local wines. Our hotel has a wonderful veranda, where we found a table and toasted the sunset with our delicious purchases. It was a beautiful way to end a great day!
This morning, we drove east of the city to some beautiful falls. The falls were breath-taking, but what was even more incredible was the woods on the way to the falls. The hike was quite strenuous at times, but through an old forest with huge, moss-covered trees and ferns that often equaled my height. It was quiet in the forest, and the path was well worn from many previous travelers.
On our drive home, we stopped at a winery, Chateau St. Michelle and learned a little bit more about the wine-making process, which I still don't really understand, although I have heard the process many times. Most of the wineries here actually grow the grapes in a different part of the state, a dryer area. So, we got to see the winery, but not the actual vineyard.
We all have our addictions, whether they be good or bad. I know I am addicted to Facebook, and honey. For some it is alcohol, shopping or even trivia games. The people of Seattle are addicted to coffee. I have never seen so many coffee places. Not just Starbucks, but what seems like thousands of others! We couldn't drive a mile today without passing four or five coffee places. There is at least one on every block in the city - it is really amazing. I guess it is a shame that I don't like coffee.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Seattle
I love to travel (if you haven't figured that out yet). Whenever I travel, I seem to create memories that stick with me for years to come. I am learning, the more I travel, the more I remember my other travels and perhaps that is in fact one of the reasons I enjoy traveling.
Today, as we boarded the "terminal train" in the Atlanta airport, I was reminded of the metros and subways that my friends and I conquered last summer, particularly the snaking train in Berlin. I remembered how much fun we had trying to pretend that we were surfing, and trying not to hold on to anything. On our flight today, I was reminded of the only time I have been to Seattle, when my mother and I had a lay-over here on our way to Alaska. After landing in Seattle, in our taxi ride into the city, I was reminded of how excited I was on our taxi ride from the Paris airport last year as we entered the great city of lights. And as we walked the streets of Seattle by the local market, I was reminded of the wonderful summer I spent in Florence, and of the many delicious lunches I selected from the market. So, while I love to travel and see new places, the joy of reliving the memories from past trips is equally as wonderful.
When I told people that my parents and I were coming to Washington this summer, most of them asked, "What's in Washington?" To be honest, right now, I'm not really sure. I am excited to see and to learn though! How did we end up here? Well, Mom doesn't like heat or lines, and with the economy, we didn't think that this was the year for international travel. So, that is sort of how we ended up here.
I am really excited because we will be spending some time in the city, then also in quiet, remote places where we can enjoy the beauty of the world around us. I love a great mixture!
Seattle is a beautiful, clean city that seems very walkable. I love being able to step out of the hotel and just walk around and enjoy urban life.
I'm sure that this travel blog will not be as exciting as my ones to Europe and Honduras, but I do hope that I will be able to share some about a part of the country that maybe you have not yet visited. Or perhaps, it can just remind you of some of your own travels.
Today, as we boarded the "terminal train" in the Atlanta airport, I was reminded of the metros and subways that my friends and I conquered last summer, particularly the snaking train in Berlin. I remembered how much fun we had trying to pretend that we were surfing, and trying not to hold on to anything. On our flight today, I was reminded of the only time I have been to Seattle, when my mother and I had a lay-over here on our way to Alaska. After landing in Seattle, in our taxi ride into the city, I was reminded of how excited I was on our taxi ride from the Paris airport last year as we entered the great city of lights. And as we walked the streets of Seattle by the local market, I was reminded of the wonderful summer I spent in Florence, and of the many delicious lunches I selected from the market. So, while I love to travel and see new places, the joy of reliving the memories from past trips is equally as wonderful.
When I told people that my parents and I were coming to Washington this summer, most of them asked, "What's in Washington?" To be honest, right now, I'm not really sure. I am excited to see and to learn though! How did we end up here? Well, Mom doesn't like heat or lines, and with the economy, we didn't think that this was the year for international travel. So, that is sort of how we ended up here.
I am really excited because we will be spending some time in the city, then also in quiet, remote places where we can enjoy the beauty of the world around us. I love a great mixture!
Seattle is a beautiful, clean city that seems very walkable. I love being able to step out of the hotel and just walk around and enjoy urban life.
I'm sure that this travel blog will not be as exciting as my ones to Europe and Honduras, but I do hope that I will be able to share some about a part of the country that maybe you have not yet visited. Or perhaps, it can just remind you of some of your own travels.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thank You!
I just want to say thank you so much for reading about my trip to Honduras. If you have any questions about Heifer, please contact me, at rebecca.annesmith@yahoo.com, I would love to talk to you.
Also, I took a lot of pictures, and whenever you have the chance, I would love for you to look at them. They are posted at rebeccastravels.shutterfly.com
Also, I took a lot of pictures, and whenever you have the chance, I would love for you to look at them. They are posted at rebeccastravels.shutterfly.com
Esperanza
A few years ago I read a fantastic book, a children's book called Esperanza Rising. The story is about a young girl, Esperanza, whose family is forced to move to America from Mexico. She endures many hardships, but the end of the story provides a great deal of hope for the rest of this young woman's life. It is only at the end that we learn Esperanza means hope.
The families I met this week had endured many hardships, but now, because of Heifer, they are full of hope, of esperanza. I saw this week how truly powerful hope is. Hope is the rainbow that follows the darkest storms. Hope is the first blooming daffodil after a bleak winter. Hope is a cow, a goat or chickens.
I am headed home now, I've departed from the group. Although eager to return home, I am upset to leave my new found friends. I have never been around a group of people so inspiring. Each and every member of our group does so much to make the world a better place. The love they have for others is astounding. The adventures, the wisdom and the compassion in the group is truly incredible. And I must say, they are also a whole lot of fun. I feel totally and completely blessed to have been a part of this group.
Upon returning, I think of my own hopes. I hope I touched a life on this trip. I hope I can spread Heifer's mission to anyone who will listen. I hope I remember everyday how fortunate I am. I hope I remember this trip and how much it touched me for the rest of my life.
"I hope for more love, more joy and laughter,
I hope we'll have more than we ever need.
I hope we'll have more happy ever afters.
I hope we can live more fearlessly
And we can loose all the pain and misery."
Esperanza... fill your life with it.
The families I met this week had endured many hardships, but now, because of Heifer, they are full of hope, of esperanza. I saw this week how truly powerful hope is. Hope is the rainbow that follows the darkest storms. Hope is the first blooming daffodil after a bleak winter. Hope is a cow, a goat or chickens.
I am headed home now, I've departed from the group. Although eager to return home, I am upset to leave my new found friends. I have never been around a group of people so inspiring. Each and every member of our group does so much to make the world a better place. The love they have for others is astounding. The adventures, the wisdom and the compassion in the group is truly incredible. And I must say, they are also a whole lot of fun. I feel totally and completely blessed to have been a part of this group.
Upon returning, I think of my own hopes. I hope I touched a life on this trip. I hope I can spread Heifer's mission to anyone who will listen. I hope I remember everyday how fortunate I am. I hope I remember this trip and how much it touched me for the rest of my life.
"I hope for more love, more joy and laughter,
I hope we'll have more than we ever need.
I hope we'll have more happy ever afters.
I hope we can live more fearlessly
And we can loose all the pain and misery."
Esperanza... fill your life with it.
Democracy
Today was an interesting day, not exactly what we planned, but we are all teachers, we know how to be flexible.
We set off early from Copan, with plans to go to a project, but because of political reasons, our leaders felt it would be safer if we went straight to San Pedro Sula.
On the way, I was listening to my music, and words by that amazing philosopher, Dolly Parton, struck me. She sings of her coat of many colors and says, "One is only poor only if they choose to be." I have seen that to be so true this week.
Besides the curvy road, we did not encounter any problems, but upon arrival, things became more interesting. Our hotel is on a major square in the center of town, and on the square was a huge demonstration. It was really fun to see it, but not have to actually be amongst it. Our balconies made the perfect lookout.
Here's the situation, from what I understand. Honduras is a democratic nation, with a similar "set-up" to our own government. The president, whose term will be over in January, fired the Minister of Defense because he would not deliver the ballot boxes for a vote today. The vote was actually a survey to see if there would be an interest in changing the constitution (possibly to up the president's power).
The army and president were on opposing sides with the recent firing. This morning, the army kidnapped the president from his home and flew him to Costa Rica, possibly because of a supreme court order. The Senate met and appointed the head of the Senate as the interim president since the vice president had resigned several months ago to work on his own campaign for president.
As you can only imagine, the country is split. (What would we do if Obama was kidnapped by the army?!?) Also, it is hard to know the whole truth because of different reports and opinions that are all mixed in.
Anyway, because of this situation, we were adviced to "hunker down" and enjoy the hotel. So we watched the rally, ate, swam, talked and laughed.
After dinner it was time for our final reflection and a gift from Lori. When I was young, my mom often sang "Pass It On," to me, a song she learned around a campfire. "It only takes a spark, to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing..." Lori immediately connected the song to the mission of Heifer and wrote these beautiful lyrics which we sang tonight.
"Pass It On"
It only takes a cow
To get a family going
And soon all those around
Are partners in their growing
That's how it is with Heifer's work
Once they've received a gift
Their spirits sing
From hope it brings
And then they pass it on.
We wish for all our friends
The hopefulness that we've found
Our journey will not end
It matters not where we're bound
We'll take this gift that we've received
And tell the world we know
That every heart
Can play a part
We all can pass it on!
Although this was not exactly the kind of day we had planned, I was still able to find hope. The power of the vote, of the people and of democracy is alive and well in this country - it is so hopeful no matter the struggles that lie ahead. And there is hope in each one of us, hope of touching the lives of our students, friends and family when we share the experiences we have had on this amazing journey.
There is hope in all of us.
We set off early from Copan, with plans to go to a project, but because of political reasons, our leaders felt it would be safer if we went straight to San Pedro Sula.
On the way, I was listening to my music, and words by that amazing philosopher, Dolly Parton, struck me. She sings of her coat of many colors and says, "One is only poor only if they choose to be." I have seen that to be so true this week.
Besides the curvy road, we did not encounter any problems, but upon arrival, things became more interesting. Our hotel is on a major square in the center of town, and on the square was a huge demonstration. It was really fun to see it, but not have to actually be amongst it. Our balconies made the perfect lookout.
Here's the situation, from what I understand. Honduras is a democratic nation, with a similar "set-up" to our own government. The president, whose term will be over in January, fired the Minister of Defense because he would not deliver the ballot boxes for a vote today. The vote was actually a survey to see if there would be an interest in changing the constitution (possibly to up the president's power).
The army and president were on opposing sides with the recent firing. This morning, the army kidnapped the president from his home and flew him to Costa Rica, possibly because of a supreme court order. The Senate met and appointed the head of the Senate as the interim president since the vice president had resigned several months ago to work on his own campaign for president.
As you can only imagine, the country is split. (What would we do if Obama was kidnapped by the army?!?) Also, it is hard to know the whole truth because of different reports and opinions that are all mixed in.
Anyway, because of this situation, we were adviced to "hunker down" and enjoy the hotel. So we watched the rally, ate, swam, talked and laughed.
After dinner it was time for our final reflection and a gift from Lori. When I was young, my mom often sang "Pass It On," to me, a song she learned around a campfire. "It only takes a spark, to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up in its glowing..." Lori immediately connected the song to the mission of Heifer and wrote these beautiful lyrics which we sang tonight.
"Pass It On"
It only takes a cow
To get a family going
And soon all those around
Are partners in their growing
That's how it is with Heifer's work
Once they've received a gift
Their spirits sing
From hope it brings
And then they pass it on.
We wish for all our friends
The hopefulness that we've found
Our journey will not end
It matters not where we're bound
We'll take this gift that we've received
And tell the world we know
That every heart
Can play a part
We all can pass it on!
Although this was not exactly the kind of day we had planned, I was still able to find hope. The power of the vote, of the people and of democracy is alive and well in this country - it is so hopeful no matter the struggles that lie ahead. And there is hope in each one of us, hope of touching the lives of our students, friends and family when we share the experiences we have had on this amazing journey.
There is hope in all of us.
Copan
My thighs and my abs are incredibly sore, but today was a fun day!
We started our day by visiting the historic Mayan ruins here in Copan. They were beautiful, and anytime I think of an ancient civilization creating such an amazing piece of architecture without machinery or modern tools, I am baffled. We had a great guide, Oscar, who did a wonderful job of explaining things about the history and what we were seeing.
After our tour of the ruins and the museum, we stopped at Jim's pizza. Jim is from Ohio and makes amazing pizzas! I really have enjoyed the food here, but wow, that pizza hit the spot!
Most of the group had signed up for horse ride through the surrounding areas. I was very excited, despite the fact that I can't remember the last time I was on a horse, it was hot, and I was stuffed from the great lunch. Our horses were calm, relatively small, and we had many handlers walking along beside us. About ten minutes into the ride it started raining, and continued to rain for most of the trip. This, I must say, made the whole thing even more entertaining.
We stopped after climbing a huge hill at a Chorti (direct Mayan decents) village. The poverty in this village was even more than we had seen before, but the worst part was all of the begging children. I remember that from Egypt and Rome. I remember how much I hate the feeling that it evokes inside me. I was worried when I came to Honduras that I would encounter that everywhere, but I really hadn't until today.
Well, as I mentioned, it was raining and we had gone up a huge hill. What I forgot to mention was how steep, muddy, uneven and rocky this road was. I must admit, I was quite terrified going back down. I probably overexaggerated the leaning back (hence the sore abs), to ensure I did not fall forward. Also on our way home my "slow and steady" horse decided we could do some trotting (hence the sore thighs). Oh! And on our way back into town, I saw a Hondurian wearing... an Auburn t-shirt! I smiled at him, pointed at his shirt and yelled, "War Eagle!" I'm sure I just sounded crazy, but he was nice enough to smile back and give me the thumbs up. It was a great afternoon, full of laughs.
Next, we went to another Chorti village, but one where Heifer had been involved. Although the poverty was still overwhelming, no one was begging. It is truly amazing how Heifer can teach such dignity and sustainability.
We listened to one of the leaders of the village talk for a long while about all of the struggles he had been through in order to get his small piece of land, cinderblock home and few livestock. Though this man had been robbed, stabbed and unjustly jailed, he was still full of hope and pride. He was telling us that there had been some disagreements in the village, I believe it was probably from people reluctant to change. However, he explained it as being, "sometimes we don't value what we have." I felt oh so spoiled and oh so selfish as I looked at his humble home, shoe-less family of eleven, out-house and lack of crops.
After dinner, it was time to type the journal. In Houston, we drew names to put us into the buddy system. Each pair was responsible for one day during the week. Tiffany and I had today. We were determined to do something different than just typing the events of the day, so we had a lot of fun with the photo journal that we created!
A group sat around telling stories and sharing laughs for a long time. I think the laughing made my stomach even more sore. I was tired, but knowing that I only have one more day with these amazing people-I just couldn't tear myself away.
We started our day by visiting the historic Mayan ruins here in Copan. They were beautiful, and anytime I think of an ancient civilization creating such an amazing piece of architecture without machinery or modern tools, I am baffled. We had a great guide, Oscar, who did a wonderful job of explaining things about the history and what we were seeing.
After our tour of the ruins and the museum, we stopped at Jim's pizza. Jim is from Ohio and makes amazing pizzas! I really have enjoyed the food here, but wow, that pizza hit the spot!
Most of the group had signed up for horse ride through the surrounding areas. I was very excited, despite the fact that I can't remember the last time I was on a horse, it was hot, and I was stuffed from the great lunch. Our horses were calm, relatively small, and we had many handlers walking along beside us. About ten minutes into the ride it started raining, and continued to rain for most of the trip. This, I must say, made the whole thing even more entertaining.
We stopped after climbing a huge hill at a Chorti (direct Mayan decents) village. The poverty in this village was even more than we had seen before, but the worst part was all of the begging children. I remember that from Egypt and Rome. I remember how much I hate the feeling that it evokes inside me. I was worried when I came to Honduras that I would encounter that everywhere, but I really hadn't until today.
Well, as I mentioned, it was raining and we had gone up a huge hill. What I forgot to mention was how steep, muddy, uneven and rocky this road was. I must admit, I was quite terrified going back down. I probably overexaggerated the leaning back (hence the sore abs), to ensure I did not fall forward. Also on our way home my "slow and steady" horse decided we could do some trotting (hence the sore thighs). Oh! And on our way back into town, I saw a Hondurian wearing... an Auburn t-shirt! I smiled at him, pointed at his shirt and yelled, "War Eagle!" I'm sure I just sounded crazy, but he was nice enough to smile back and give me the thumbs up. It was a great afternoon, full of laughs.
Next, we went to another Chorti village, but one where Heifer had been involved. Although the poverty was still overwhelming, no one was begging. It is truly amazing how Heifer can teach such dignity and sustainability.
We listened to one of the leaders of the village talk for a long while about all of the struggles he had been through in order to get his small piece of land, cinderblock home and few livestock. Though this man had been robbed, stabbed and unjustly jailed, he was still full of hope and pride. He was telling us that there had been some disagreements in the village, I believe it was probably from people reluctant to change. However, he explained it as being, "sometimes we don't value what we have." I felt oh so spoiled and oh so selfish as I looked at his humble home, shoe-less family of eleven, out-house and lack of crops.
After dinner, it was time to type the journal. In Houston, we drew names to put us into the buddy system. Each pair was responsible for one day during the week. Tiffany and I had today. We were determined to do something different than just typing the events of the day, so we had a lot of fun with the photo journal that we created!
A group sat around telling stories and sharing laughs for a long time. I think the laughing made my stomach even more sore. I was tired, but knowing that I only have one more day with these amazing people-I just couldn't tear myself away.
Photographs
I only thought yesterday was the best it could get - today was amazing!
Our first stop today was at a farming school. A passionate, happy and dedicated man lives on this small farm and teaches farmers about better practices, ways to improve their crops and care for their animals. I'm not really sure if he ever stopped smiling, nor do I think he would have ever stopped telling us about his work, had our guide not interfered. He showed us his cow, Sardine, the worms in his compost, chickens, mangoes, pineapples(am I the only one who did not know that they grew on the ground?!), sugar cane, and the bio-gas system.
He took us to a couple of other homes in the community where Heifer had been involved. You could tell he was well respected and well loved by everyone. The first home we visited had been a recipient of a passing on the gift of chickens. He was also using a bio-gas stove which he said had made a huge difference in their lives. He had also been trained in veterinary medicine so that he could care for his chickens and other animals in the community.
Our next stop was to the home of a Heifer recipient, a single mother of seven whose oldest son had been hit by a car the day before. (He was in the house with no medications and several fractures in his leg.) As we were all standing around listening to her talk, I noticed a swarm beginning to surround us.
A swarm... of children - all ages. Of course seeing them, my attention was immediately diverted. I began taking photos of them from afar, but moved closer and closer. I showed them one of the photos I took (thank goodness for digital!), and that was it. I'm not sure if they had any idea what the camera, or the images were, but they loved it!
The group had wandered off to see more of this woman's land, so I beckoned to the children and we all took off together. They loved having their pictures taken, they loved seeing them, and they loved laughing.
I didn't hear much of what was said on that farm, but I didn't need any words. The joy in the eyes of those children is imprinted on my heart. What I loved most was that I was able to take a talent, my photography, and combine it with my passion, children, to create something so beautiful, that not even a language barrier could stand in the way of it.
I felt like I was floating on a cloud for the rest of the day - so happy, so elated to be able to have made a real connection. I hope that I had even a small fraction of the effect on them today that they had on me. It was truly amazing and one of the most touching experiences of my life.
We are in Copan tonight, a small tourist town that we can walk around and explore. Although it is much more touristy, I love wandering down the cobblestone streets.
When we sat down for dinner, I heard a familiar sound... "Eye of the Tiger" was blaring through the stereo in the dining room of the hotel. Our waiter went to change it, but I gave him a disappointed look, to which he smiled and put it back on. The CD continued with some great 80's hits such as "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and "Ghostbusters."
After dinner and a great reflection time, we went for dessert at a little local place where I enjoyed an amazing banana bread cake and a chocolate milkshake. More stories were told, and laughter that brought us to tears.
Oh, as we were in the town this afternoon, it began to drizzle. Lindsey looked up and noticed a rainbow. Could it have been a more perfect day? As we watched, the rainbow stretched across the sky, into a full rainbow. Instead of going in search of that pot of gold, I thought, maybe I've already found mine.
Our first stop today was at a farming school. A passionate, happy and dedicated man lives on this small farm and teaches farmers about better practices, ways to improve their crops and care for their animals. I'm not really sure if he ever stopped smiling, nor do I think he would have ever stopped telling us about his work, had our guide not interfered. He showed us his cow, Sardine, the worms in his compost, chickens, mangoes, pineapples(am I the only one who did not know that they grew on the ground?!), sugar cane, and the bio-gas system.
He took us to a couple of other homes in the community where Heifer had been involved. You could tell he was well respected and well loved by everyone. The first home we visited had been a recipient of a passing on the gift of chickens. He was also using a bio-gas stove which he said had made a huge difference in their lives. He had also been trained in veterinary medicine so that he could care for his chickens and other animals in the community.
Our next stop was to the home of a Heifer recipient, a single mother of seven whose oldest son had been hit by a car the day before. (He was in the house with no medications and several fractures in his leg.) As we were all standing around listening to her talk, I noticed a swarm beginning to surround us.
A swarm... of children - all ages. Of course seeing them, my attention was immediately diverted. I began taking photos of them from afar, but moved closer and closer. I showed them one of the photos I took (thank goodness for digital!), and that was it. I'm not sure if they had any idea what the camera, or the images were, but they loved it!
The group had wandered off to see more of this woman's land, so I beckoned to the children and we all took off together. They loved having their pictures taken, they loved seeing them, and they loved laughing.
I didn't hear much of what was said on that farm, but I didn't need any words. The joy in the eyes of those children is imprinted on my heart. What I loved most was that I was able to take a talent, my photography, and combine it with my passion, children, to create something so beautiful, that not even a language barrier could stand in the way of it.
I felt like I was floating on a cloud for the rest of the day - so happy, so elated to be able to have made a real connection. I hope that I had even a small fraction of the effect on them today that they had on me. It was truly amazing and one of the most touching experiences of my life.
We are in Copan tonight, a small tourist town that we can walk around and explore. Although it is much more touristy, I love wandering down the cobblestone streets.
When we sat down for dinner, I heard a familiar sound... "Eye of the Tiger" was blaring through the stereo in the dining room of the hotel. Our waiter went to change it, but I gave him a disappointed look, to which he smiled and put it back on. The CD continued with some great 80's hits such as "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and "Ghostbusters."
After dinner and a great reflection time, we went for dessert at a little local place where I enjoyed an amazing banana bread cake and a chocolate milkshake. More stories were told, and laughter that brought us to tears.
Oh, as we were in the town this afternoon, it began to drizzle. Lindsey looked up and noticed a rainbow. Could it have been a more perfect day? As we watched, the rainbow stretched across the sky, into a full rainbow. Instead of going in search of that pot of gold, I thought, maybe I've already found mine.
Honey
If you know me at all, you know that I love honey! A peanut butter and honey sandwich has been my lunch for a countless number of years. A biscuit is not complete if it is not covered in honey, a spoonful of honey coats any sore throat and I even dip my chicken fingers in honey!
Today, we left Via Gracia and headed West. Our fist stop was a co-op where they bottle honey. I had a hard time containing my excitement when I saw the barrels of honey! I learned so much about bees, the process of making honey, benefits of pollen and the bottling of honey. Sadly, I was not able to stick my face in one of the barrels, but even greater things lay in store!
The co-operative is made up of bee-keepers across the country, then the honey is mixed together to obtain a more consistent taste and color. The honey is known as the best tasting in the country.
After visiting the co-operative, we drove out to one of the bee keeper's farms. This man had started small, but through all of his hard work, and the bees, he purchased cows, plants and more land. He said he bought his first cow with 55 bottles of honey and he now has 45 hives of bees.
I absolutely loved watching this man talk about his bees-what pride and love he had for them. He seemed surprised that we wanted to see them. He was nervous they may sting us; the bees know him and do not sting him. To calm the bees, he made a small fire in a kettle-type thing, that blew smoke out. We walked right up to the hives, he uncovered one and pulled out a huge piece of beeswax dripping with fresh honey. I wish I had words to describe how good the honey tasted, but my vocabulary is not that extensive.
After that, we were off to Santa Rosa de Copan, where we would spend one night. It was a long van ride, in a hot, full van, but it was totally worth it. The scenery in this country is outstanding. It reminds me of the Emerald Isle, but even more mountains. I also enjoy passing the homes, and seeing just how life is here. I am so blessed, so spoiled. And yet, everyone I have seen and met here has a smile on his/her face. I hope I will always remember this feeling and that it will truly change my life.
Besides the countryside to entertain us, we almost split our sides listening to the most embarrassing stories, first date stories and stories about husbands and children. I really do love teachers.
We checked into the hotel and had a great meal of chicken, beans, tortillas, cheese and plantains. A few of us decided to see this cute town and ventured out to find a neat square with a beautiful church. Music caught our attention and we were drawn into a local "pub," where despite being in sweats and a t-shirt, I thoroughly enjoyed salsa dancing in front of people whose bodies were made to actually move with that Latin beat. What a great night with these new found friends!
Today, we left Via Gracia and headed West. Our fist stop was a co-op where they bottle honey. I had a hard time containing my excitement when I saw the barrels of honey! I learned so much about bees, the process of making honey, benefits of pollen and the bottling of honey. Sadly, I was not able to stick my face in one of the barrels, but even greater things lay in store!
The co-operative is made up of bee-keepers across the country, then the honey is mixed together to obtain a more consistent taste and color. The honey is known as the best tasting in the country.
After visiting the co-operative, we drove out to one of the bee keeper's farms. This man had started small, but through all of his hard work, and the bees, he purchased cows, plants and more land. He said he bought his first cow with 55 bottles of honey and he now has 45 hives of bees.
I absolutely loved watching this man talk about his bees-what pride and love he had for them. He seemed surprised that we wanted to see them. He was nervous they may sting us; the bees know him and do not sting him. To calm the bees, he made a small fire in a kettle-type thing, that blew smoke out. We walked right up to the hives, he uncovered one and pulled out a huge piece of beeswax dripping with fresh honey. I wish I had words to describe how good the honey tasted, but my vocabulary is not that extensive.
After that, we were off to Santa Rosa de Copan, where we would spend one night. It was a long van ride, in a hot, full van, but it was totally worth it. The scenery in this country is outstanding. It reminds me of the Emerald Isle, but even more mountains. I also enjoy passing the homes, and seeing just how life is here. I am so blessed, so spoiled. And yet, everyone I have seen and met here has a smile on his/her face. I hope I will always remember this feeling and that it will truly change my life.
Besides the countryside to entertain us, we almost split our sides listening to the most embarrassing stories, first date stories and stories about husbands and children. I really do love teachers.
We checked into the hotel and had a great meal of chicken, beans, tortillas, cheese and plantains. A few of us decided to see this cute town and ventured out to find a neat square with a beautiful church. Music caught our attention and we were drawn into a local "pub," where despite being in sweats and a t-shirt, I thoroughly enjoyed salsa dancing in front of people whose bodies were made to actually move with that Latin beat. What a great night with these new found friends!
Project Visits
Wow! What a fantastic day! Tonight is our last night at this place and I must admit that I will miss sharing the room with these other women. It has been so much fun, like a sleepover that none of us have been to for years. This morning, someone's alarm went off and as we all started saying "good morning" to one another, someone asked, "What time is it?" When Tracey looked at her watch, we discovered it was only 3:30. So, we had a good laugh and went back to sleep. I will not miss the cold showers though. (We have decided that the F and C on the knobs stand for frigid and chilly, although I think Mia has an alternative suggestion.)
Our bus ride itself was an adventure. The driving is similar to any European road you may have traveled on: people driving too fast on narrow roads with people, animals, and motorbikes all around. I have complete faith in our driver, it's just a tad scary. That was only the beginning of our driving adventure though. After traveling south for a little over an hour, we turned onto dirt roads. About twenty minutes into this drive, amongst some of the most beautiful countryside I can remember seeing, we climbed into the backs of small pick up trucks, because the road ahead was too treacherous for the bus. I found safety in the fact that we were all crammed in like sardines, but nevertheless, the hills caused lots of sliding. Although my arms were sore at the end of the day from gripping the sides so hard, I had a great time and some fabulous laughs were had in the back of the truck today.
Our first stop was at a house where a woman had received a cow in November. This woman, with a young grand-daughter at her knees, graciously welcomed us into her home, showed us her cow, her plot of land and her husband's. I found it odd how separate they kept things (he took care of his, and she hers), but they were both so proud to tell us about their own land. They showed us how they had terraced the land and were growing corn and fruit trees. I must admit that everyone I saw today made me feel incredibly lazy. They were all so happy, giving, optimistic, and very hard working. At our first stop, hope was all around when the woman told us how the cow provided milk and cheese for the family as she embraced her grand-daughter.
Next we stopped at a school! Can you imagine how disruptive it would be to bring twenty foreigners into your classroom unannounced? The teacher was wonderful though and told us more about the education system and her small 4th-6th grade classroom. The children were very kind and even serenaded us with the national anthem.
Especiala was the name of the next heifer we met. She belonged to a man with a very well kept home who also had a banana plantation and cornfield behind his house. He told us that through the help of Heifer and their partners, he was able to learn about better ways to fertilize and that his corn was doing tremendously better. We enjoyed the cornfields and even sang show tunes that included corn from "Oklahoma" and "South Pacific." (Can you name the song from "South Pacific" that talks about corn?)
After a very fast, slightly terrifying ride, we arrived at our third house for the day. Here, the woman had prepared a wonderful chicken soup, rice and tortillas for our lunch. It amazed me how giving these people who have so little can be. The man proudly showed us his cow, Fortuna, and her nine-day-old calf, Dolly. He also showed us his land where he planted corn. I'm afraid that I would have looked at the rocky hillside and called it quits there. With the training he received though, he has been able to make great use of the land. He terraced the land, using rocks to divide it in nine places, all over eighty meters long. I don't mean a row of rocks, I mean nine rock walls. He said because of good compost and manure, he was planting about half as many corn seeds, but yielding 40% more.
Yes, hope was all around today. It was in the way these people talked proudly of their belongings and their land. It was in the cows, with their young calfs, a promise awaiting to be fulfilled. And as always, it was in the eyes of the children.
A young boy at the last home we visited played peek-a-boo around a tree with me for quite sometime. Language is not a barrier, some things just go without being said.
Once "home-again," showered, and fed, the power went out. So, we sat on the porch by candlelight talking about parent-teacher conferences, Johnny Depp, hand-licking serial killers, cross-dressing Icelanders and everything in between. Needless to say, it had been a while since I laughed so hard that I cried. I think we might have even kept the teenagers, also staying here, awake! :)
Our bus ride itself was an adventure. The driving is similar to any European road you may have traveled on: people driving too fast on narrow roads with people, animals, and motorbikes all around. I have complete faith in our driver, it's just a tad scary. That was only the beginning of our driving adventure though. After traveling south for a little over an hour, we turned onto dirt roads. About twenty minutes into this drive, amongst some of the most beautiful countryside I can remember seeing, we climbed into the backs of small pick up trucks, because the road ahead was too treacherous for the bus. I found safety in the fact that we were all crammed in like sardines, but nevertheless, the hills caused lots of sliding. Although my arms were sore at the end of the day from gripping the sides so hard, I had a great time and some fabulous laughs were had in the back of the truck today.
Our first stop was at a house where a woman had received a cow in November. This woman, with a young grand-daughter at her knees, graciously welcomed us into her home, showed us her cow, her plot of land and her husband's. I found it odd how separate they kept things (he took care of his, and she hers), but they were both so proud to tell us about their own land. They showed us how they had terraced the land and were growing corn and fruit trees. I must admit that everyone I saw today made me feel incredibly lazy. They were all so happy, giving, optimistic, and very hard working. At our first stop, hope was all around when the woman told us how the cow provided milk and cheese for the family as she embraced her grand-daughter.
Next we stopped at a school! Can you imagine how disruptive it would be to bring twenty foreigners into your classroom unannounced? The teacher was wonderful though and told us more about the education system and her small 4th-6th grade classroom. The children were very kind and even serenaded us with the national anthem.
Especiala was the name of the next heifer we met. She belonged to a man with a very well kept home who also had a banana plantation and cornfield behind his house. He told us that through the help of Heifer and their partners, he was able to learn about better ways to fertilize and that his corn was doing tremendously better. We enjoyed the cornfields and even sang show tunes that included corn from "Oklahoma" and "South Pacific." (Can you name the song from "South Pacific" that talks about corn?)
After a very fast, slightly terrifying ride, we arrived at our third house for the day. Here, the woman had prepared a wonderful chicken soup, rice and tortillas for our lunch. It amazed me how giving these people who have so little can be. The man proudly showed us his cow, Fortuna, and her nine-day-old calf, Dolly. He also showed us his land where he planted corn. I'm afraid that I would have looked at the rocky hillside and called it quits there. With the training he received though, he has been able to make great use of the land. He terraced the land, using rocks to divide it in nine places, all over eighty meters long. I don't mean a row of rocks, I mean nine rock walls. He said because of good compost and manure, he was planting about half as many corn seeds, but yielding 40% more.
Yes, hope was all around today. It was in the way these people talked proudly of their belongings and their land. It was in the cows, with their young calfs, a promise awaiting to be fulfilled. And as always, it was in the eyes of the children.
A young boy at the last home we visited played peek-a-boo around a tree with me for quite sometime. Language is not a barrier, some things just go without being said.
Once "home-again," showered, and fed, the power went out. So, we sat on the porch by candlelight talking about parent-teacher conferences, Johnny Depp, hand-licking serial killers, cross-dressing Icelanders and everything in between. Needless to say, it had been a while since I laughed so hard that I cried. I think we might have even kept the teenagers, also staying here, awake! :)
Tegucigalpa
Wow! Today was filled with the taking in of even more information! I must admit I am probably acting like the families in the community - just give us the cow! I really wanted to arrive and see some of the projects immediately, but like Heifer's work in the communities, it is of even more importance than the cow itself to get the knowledge and training ahead of time. That being said... I'm incredibly excited to "get the cow" tomorrow! :)
We learned even more about how Heifer and its' partners go into the villages and work with the women to really make a difference.
After lunch we road into town, to the Heifer Honduras office. At the office we learned more about the amazing mission they have to help make communities independent. (Upon my return, all my fruits and veggies will be purchased at Murphree's or Pepper Place.)
We took a short tour through the city, stopping to go in two different churches. The churches were huge, majestic and of Spanish influence. While they are truly beautiful pieces of architecture, part of me just cannot be very amazed with anything after places like St. Peter's, Notre Dame and Westerminister Abbey, but none the less, they were beautiful.
A Hondurian historian wanted to speak with us, and since he was not feeling well, he graciously invited us into his home. He told us about the people, the culture and the problems of Honduras. The main problems seem to be a corrupt government and the exiting of so many. There are many men who leave the country in search of work who never return. Many people who can afford to go elsewhere do. Even two out of Mario's three children have moved to the States. After the depressing look into Honduras, Sara asked Mario what his favorite thing about his country is. I wish I could remember his exact words, but it was something to the effect of the strength of all the people, especially the women, who made it. Though they struggle, they make it. There it is again... a little flash of hope.
As we were driving back through the smog and the slums I decided that instead of letting any of it get me down, I'd look for hope, no matter how small it may be. Esperanza. You know, when you look for it, even among the extreme poverty, you can find it. I saw it in the children going home from school, through it all, they are still getting an education. I saw it in the puppies playing on the sidewalk, oblivious to all the hardships. I saw it in the smiles of the men as they laid on the trash heaps laughing and joking with one another.
I have a sneaking suspicion, if you look for it, hope actually is all around.
We learned even more about how Heifer and its' partners go into the villages and work with the women to really make a difference.
After lunch we road into town, to the Heifer Honduras office. At the office we learned more about the amazing mission they have to help make communities independent. (Upon my return, all my fruits and veggies will be purchased at Murphree's or Pepper Place.)
We took a short tour through the city, stopping to go in two different churches. The churches were huge, majestic and of Spanish influence. While they are truly beautiful pieces of architecture, part of me just cannot be very amazed with anything after places like St. Peter's, Notre Dame and Westerminister Abbey, but none the less, they were beautiful.
A Hondurian historian wanted to speak with us, and since he was not feeling well, he graciously invited us into his home. He told us about the people, the culture and the problems of Honduras. The main problems seem to be a corrupt government and the exiting of so many. There are many men who leave the country in search of work who never return. Many people who can afford to go elsewhere do. Even two out of Mario's three children have moved to the States. After the depressing look into Honduras, Sara asked Mario what his favorite thing about his country is. I wish I could remember his exact words, but it was something to the effect of the strength of all the people, especially the women, who made it. Though they struggle, they make it. There it is again... a little flash of hope.
As we were driving back through the smog and the slums I decided that instead of letting any of it get me down, I'd look for hope, no matter how small it may be. Esperanza. You know, when you look for it, even among the extreme poverty, you can find it. I saw it in the children going home from school, through it all, they are still getting an education. I saw it in the puppies playing on the sidewalk, oblivious to all the hardships. I saw it in the smiles of the men as they laid on the trash heaps laughing and joking with one another.
I have a sneaking suspicion, if you look for it, hope actually is all around.
Honduras!
I'm here! This country is beautiful! Coming in, I learned that Tegucigalpa is one of the most dangerous places to land. (Apparently there are YouTube videos) This is because the city is surrounded by mountains and the runway is very short. It was a smooth and beautiful landing. As we were coming in, we passed a huge statue of Jesus over-looking the city from atop a mountain.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but the mountains make a fantastic surrounding to a sad city. The poverty in this country, I knew would overwhelm me. It is horrifying to drive through a city with that much sadness, and living conditions so horrendous. I am eager to find the hope.
The Via Gracia where were we are staying is lovely, and camp style. A delicious dinner was prepared for us and we sat on seats made of animal skins. A few of us cleaned the dishes and we all enjoyed time visiting, sharing pictures and getting to know one another even better.
I am one of six women in a room, and I love the fact that women, no matter the age, love to talk, giggle and gossip. Oh the funny stories! I love hearing these women talk about their young daughters, teenage sons, husbands and wild adventures from the past.
After only a few short hours here, I have already been labeled as the animal whisperer. The German Shepherd and small orange cat have both sought (and of course happily received) my attention! :)
I wasn't sure what to expect, but the mountains make a fantastic surrounding to a sad city. The poverty in this country, I knew would overwhelm me. It is horrifying to drive through a city with that much sadness, and living conditions so horrendous. I am eager to find the hope.
The Via Gracia where were we are staying is lovely, and camp style. A delicious dinner was prepared for us and we sat on seats made of animal skins. A few of us cleaned the dishes and we all enjoyed time visiting, sharing pictures and getting to know one another even better.
I am one of six women in a room, and I love the fact that women, no matter the age, love to talk, giggle and gossip. Oh the funny stories! I love hearing these women talk about their young daughters, teenage sons, husbands and wild adventures from the past.
After only a few short hours here, I have already been labeled as the animal whisperer. The German Shepherd and small orange cat have both sought (and of course happily received) my attention! :)
Monday, June 22, 2009
Heifer International
I was first introduced to Heifer as a young child at Vacation Bible School by Miss Debbie. During that week we collected money to purchase a goat. As I grew up, my parents and I began giving these animals to one another as gifts. My first year teaching, I gave my students a sheep. My second year of teaching, I helped to coordinate a Read to Feed campaign at our school which proved over $5,000 worth of animals to needy families. My third year of teaching, I began teaching more lessons to my students about economics and world hunger through the Heifer Education program. During my third year, our Read to Feed campaign raised over $6,000, even during these tough economic times.
I have always been a supporter of Heifer and I have always appreciated the independence it promotes for families around the world. All that being said, even I had no idea what I truly amazing organization this is.
In the 1940's, Dan West was doing relief work in Spain and Portugal after the Spanish Civil War. He passed out milk to families on a daily basis and realized that they needed more. He decided he should be giving "a cow, not a cup."
From that, the idea was born. He had no idea how far reaching the organization would go. Heifer has moved 9.2 million people from poverty to hope and has greatly effected a much larger number of hungry families around the world.
How exactly does it work? Well, this is what I know so far... Communities hear about Heifer, usually through word of mouth and begin organizing a plan. Heifer helps the communities find better ways to use what they have, then they decide who will get what animals. Even if only one or two animals are given, the whole community benefits. The first female offspring is then passed on to another family. I have been told that these "Passing on the Gift" ceremonies are beautiful and emotional. The first family is giving over a member of their family, a huge sacrifice. Often times they even tell the receiving family treats the animal loves, or ways he likes to be scratched. In giving though, the family is able to help another and is all of the sudden, the one helping others. What a since of pride that must bring! Heifer stays involved with the community, teaching them better farming practices and how to care for the animal for three years and keeps tabs on them for even longer.
A lot of the organization, farming and animal care in the communities is left to the women. This has had an incredible effect on the confidence of women, and gender equality.
We were shown an image of a common Honduras home: a small house on a hill with a single cow and little trees or grass. Over time, with Heifer's teaching, the house and surrounding area changed drastically. The family built a small hut for the cow. Since the cow was caged (of course let out for walks! :)), the grass around the house grew back and the family could more easily collect the manure. The manure was used with compost. A terraced garden was built because it helped keep the land from sliding, and it collected water better than a garden just down the hillside. And of course, the compost was used as fertilizer. With the money raised from crops, the man could purchase chickens. With the money from eggs and crops, a goat. The goat was also put in a pen, and with the money from the extra milk, the farmer made a pond and purchased tilapia. Tilapia are fast growing and eat almost anything, including manure! The family created a bio-gas contraption that used what else, but manure, water and sunlight to create methane gas that could be used for cooking. Incredible!! Of course, none of this happened overnight, but there it is again - hope!
Do you see why this all inspired one of our leaders, Sarah T., to say, "I love poop!"
Heifer also works with local organizations to make an even bigger impact on the community. Many times, it is these local organizations that help the families with better farming practices, while Heifer is able to provide the animals and the training for the animals.
Heifer also purchases animals in the local areas so that the animals are accustomed to the weather conditions, and it helps the local economy even that much more. I know that is a lot of information, but I just can't say enough about how impressed I am with this organization!
I have always been a supporter of Heifer and I have always appreciated the independence it promotes for families around the world. All that being said, even I had no idea what I truly amazing organization this is.
In the 1940's, Dan West was doing relief work in Spain and Portugal after the Spanish Civil War. He passed out milk to families on a daily basis and realized that they needed more. He decided he should be giving "a cow, not a cup."
From that, the idea was born. He had no idea how far reaching the organization would go. Heifer has moved 9.2 million people from poverty to hope and has greatly effected a much larger number of hungry families around the world.
How exactly does it work? Well, this is what I know so far... Communities hear about Heifer, usually through word of mouth and begin organizing a plan. Heifer helps the communities find better ways to use what they have, then they decide who will get what animals. Even if only one or two animals are given, the whole community benefits. The first female offspring is then passed on to another family. I have been told that these "Passing on the Gift" ceremonies are beautiful and emotional. The first family is giving over a member of their family, a huge sacrifice. Often times they even tell the receiving family treats the animal loves, or ways he likes to be scratched. In giving though, the family is able to help another and is all of the sudden, the one helping others. What a since of pride that must bring! Heifer stays involved with the community, teaching them better farming practices and how to care for the animal for three years and keeps tabs on them for even longer.
A lot of the organization, farming and animal care in the communities is left to the women. This has had an incredible effect on the confidence of women, and gender equality.
We were shown an image of a common Honduras home: a small house on a hill with a single cow and little trees or grass. Over time, with Heifer's teaching, the house and surrounding area changed drastically. The family built a small hut for the cow. Since the cow was caged (of course let out for walks! :)), the grass around the house grew back and the family could more easily collect the manure. The manure was used with compost. A terraced garden was built because it helped keep the land from sliding, and it collected water better than a garden just down the hillside. And of course, the compost was used as fertilizer. With the money raised from crops, the man could purchase chickens. With the money from eggs and crops, a goat. The goat was also put in a pen, and with the money from the extra milk, the farmer made a pond and purchased tilapia. Tilapia are fast growing and eat almost anything, including manure! The family created a bio-gas contraption that used what else, but manure, water and sunlight to create methane gas that could be used for cooking. Incredible!! Of course, none of this happened overnight, but there it is again - hope!
Do you see why this all inspired one of our leaders, Sarah T., to say, "I love poop!"
Heifer also works with local organizations to make an even bigger impact on the community. Many times, it is these local organizations that help the families with better farming practices, while Heifer is able to provide the animals and the training for the animals.
Heifer also purchases animals in the local areas so that the animals are accustomed to the weather conditions, and it helps the local economy even that much more. I know that is a lot of information, but I just can't say enough about how impressed I am with this organization!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
The Beginning
There is no possible way to tell you all of the things that I have learned and experienced, just from this one day in Houston, but in a few minutes time I will do my best to give you a small overview of the incredible people I have met and the exciting things I have learned.
First off, I must say, I'm not sure if I have ever been in the presence of such an amazing group of people. Each person is so good, so involved and has such vision to truly make this world a better place. There is a wide range of ages, backgrounds and even occupations on this trip. I am the youngest on the trip, however there are several others not too much older than me. There are many who have children my age and some who even have grandchildren. There are librarians, principals, high school English teachers, reading teachers, science teachers, a church drama leader and some classroom teachers like myself.
I must go ahead and say that the group is going to be a fun one! We started our day off by writing down questions that were posted on the wall, and our leaders, Sara, Sara, Sara and Jen would take them off one at a time throughout the day to answer them. One question brought up was a concern about AIDS in the country and extra precautions we might should take. Well besides just talking about being careful around blood, the conversation took another turn and from then on many jokes led back to that. It is going to be a great group to go with!
Throughout the day today I fell even more in love with Heifer and I cannot wait to do more with them and see the hope that they bring to so many. Heifer truly makes a difference in the lives of people and communities around the world. They do not just go in and drop a cow off. It is so much more about training and the building of the community that goes before and after the animal.
During our week in Honduras we will be visiting different project sites. These are communities where Heifer has been present and the communities are established. We will not really be doing mission work, more we will see the hope that has been brought to these people and the changes in their lives.
I am so excited about this opportunity, for so many reasons. I am getting wonderful ideas for a wide range of teachers from across the country. I will be visiting a new country and a new culture! I will be seeing what a difference Heifer makes in the world. I am learning more about my own country as I visit with my fellow travelers. I am getting to share about how great Alabama really is (they were fascinated by my Piggly Wiggly ties and the lack of southern accent). Mostly, I'm excited to see hope.
First off, I must say, I'm not sure if I have ever been in the presence of such an amazing group of people. Each person is so good, so involved and has such vision to truly make this world a better place. There is a wide range of ages, backgrounds and even occupations on this trip. I am the youngest on the trip, however there are several others not too much older than me. There are many who have children my age and some who even have grandchildren. There are librarians, principals, high school English teachers, reading teachers, science teachers, a church drama leader and some classroom teachers like myself.
I must go ahead and say that the group is going to be a fun one! We started our day off by writing down questions that were posted on the wall, and our leaders, Sara, Sara, Sara and Jen would take them off one at a time throughout the day to answer them. One question brought up was a concern about AIDS in the country and extra precautions we might should take. Well besides just talking about being careful around blood, the conversation took another turn and from then on many jokes led back to that. It is going to be a great group to go with!
Throughout the day today I fell even more in love with Heifer and I cannot wait to do more with them and see the hope that they bring to so many. Heifer truly makes a difference in the lives of people and communities around the world. They do not just go in and drop a cow off. It is so much more about training and the building of the community that goes before and after the animal.
During our week in Honduras we will be visiting different project sites. These are communities where Heifer has been present and the communities are established. We will not really be doing mission work, more we will see the hope that has been brought to these people and the changes in their lives.
I am so excited about this opportunity, for so many reasons. I am getting wonderful ideas for a wide range of teachers from across the country. I will be visiting a new country and a new culture! I will be seeing what a difference Heifer makes in the world. I am learning more about my own country as I visit with my fellow travelers. I am getting to share about how great Alabama really is (they were fascinated by my Piggly Wiggly ties and the lack of southern accent). Mostly, I'm excited to see hope.
From the plane...
My journey has begun! I am on a very small plane (I'm the last row at row 19), and it is just a short trip, but nevertheless, I know it is the start of so much more.
I am surrounded by high school students on their way home from a debate tournament in Birmingham. I must admit that I love listening to them talk. I know I am still very young, but high school seems so long ago, so different. Yes, they have issues facing them that they should not have to deal with, but there is still that mentality of being indestructible, unstoppable and nothing ahead but wide open roads.
Their conversations are centered around debate, not surprising I know. They have discussed their speeches, other contestants, great speeches they have heard, the tournament and college. I am truly impressed with their level of sophistication. I cannot help but think that these very students could soon be great speakers, great leaders in our country. They are our future.
And isn't that the whole reason I am embarking on this adventure? To help our children become leaders of tomorrow? To help our children see the needs in the world and see that they can make a difference?
Yes, it's a small step, but did you ever hear the story about the starfish? A storm had come across the shore and washed thousands of starfish onto the beach. One man walking along the beach came across another man on the beach who was picking the starfish up, one at a time and tossing them back into the ocean. The first man asked the second, "Why are you doing this, there is no way that you can save them all." To which the second man replied as he tossed another starfish into the ocean, "It sure made a difference to that one."
I am surrounded by high school students on their way home from a debate tournament in Birmingham. I must admit that I love listening to them talk. I know I am still very young, but high school seems so long ago, so different. Yes, they have issues facing them that they should not have to deal with, but there is still that mentality of being indestructible, unstoppable and nothing ahead but wide open roads.
Their conversations are centered around debate, not surprising I know. They have discussed their speeches, other contestants, great speeches they have heard, the tournament and college. I am truly impressed with their level of sophistication. I cannot help but think that these very students could soon be great speakers, great leaders in our country. They are our future.
And isn't that the whole reason I am embarking on this adventure? To help our children become leaders of tomorrow? To help our children see the needs in the world and see that they can make a difference?
Yes, it's a small step, but did you ever hear the story about the starfish? A storm had come across the shore and washed thousands of starfish onto the beach. One man walking along the beach came across another man on the beach who was picking the starfish up, one at a time and tossing them back into the ocean. The first man asked the second, "Why are you doing this, there is no way that you can save them all." To which the second man replied as he tossed another starfish into the ocean, "It sure made a difference to that one."
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Honduras
Isn't it amazing where God opens windows? Who would have ever thought that because I became a teacher, in Birmingham, I would be given an amazing opportunity to travel.
I feel very blessed to have been placed at Shades Cahaba in Homewood. It has been a wonderful school for me - a school rich with culture, supportive parents, incredible staff, and children who are eager to learn. One thing that I love the most is the Character Education program which is the foundation of so much that we teach. With character comes service to others, another idea that our students embrace whole heartedly. In a school with around 600 students, we donated over 1800 hours worth of Community Service this year! (http://www.al.com/news/birminghamnews/south.ssf?/base/community/1234948545299450.xml&coll=2)
Over the past two years, our school has participated in a wonderful program called Read to Feed. This is an education based program which raises money for Heifer International. Heifer has long been a favorite non-profit orgranization of mine. The basis of Heifer is to make people around the world more self-sufficient. The whole philosophy is based off of the idea of give a man a fish verses teach a man to fish. Rather than donating a meal or money to a family, Heifer donates animals. These animals help to provide nourishment, money and even help with the work load. All of this in an effort to make people more independent. Another aspect of Heifer that I really like is that each family who receives a gift from Heifer, in turn donates offspring of their animal to another, in need. (http://www.heifer.org/)
All of that being said, over the past two school years, students at Shades Cahaba have asked friends and family members (and even the local Rotary Club!) to pledge money for each book that he/she reads. Through these donations, our students have collected around $12,000! How truly amazing!
Yes I know, you are beginning to wonder what on earth this has to do with Honduras. Well, through my involvement with the Read to Feed program I became aware of a trip, which I applied for and feel so completely blessed to have been awarded. I will be traveling with a team of 18 teachers from around the country to Honduras. This trip, solely for educators, is completely paid for through grants. The goal of the trip is for all of us to share ideas with one another, see Heifer at work, see poverty in the world, and bring it all back to the classroom.
I will be leaving on Saturday, June 20th to fly to Houston where I will be through Monday morning. While in Houston, we will be meeting and discussing ways we can teach our students about world hunger as well as getting to know more about each other and what we will be doing on our trip.
On Monday we will fly to Tegucigalpa, Honduras. We will stay at the Heifer Lodge there for a few days before continuing on to Copan and then on to San Pedro Sula, where we will fly out of, the following Monday, the 29th. During the week we will be visiting project sites and even some Mayan ruins.
I am truly thrilled and honored to be going on this journey. I do not believe that I will be able to do much, if any, blogging, while I am away, but I plan on writing a detailed journal and will happily share it through the blog upon my return. And of course, I will share the small amount of pictures I will take... :)
Thank you for reading, and thank you for interest and support.
My Travel Blog
In the summer of 2008, I traveled through Europe with a friend and decided to blog for the first time. It was a wonderful way for me to keep in touch with family and friends, and also a wonderful way for me to document my travels.
My traveling adventures are no where near complete; I love to travel and am eager to see more of the world. I decided that rather than having a different blog for every trip, I would create one blog where I could include all of my travels.
My hope is that this blog will become a great collection for me, and I hope that you will enjoy reading it.
My traveling adventures are no where near complete; I love to travel and am eager to see more of the world. I decided that rather than having a different blog for every trip, I would create one blog where I could include all of my travels.
My hope is that this blog will become a great collection for me, and I hope that you will enjoy reading it.
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