Well where do I start? This is an ending to a chapter in my life. I finished work last week and I can not believe how fast this whole experience has gone. It has been wonderful. I said goodbye to my coworkers and they ended it with a farewell party, cake and tea after lunch finishing up at the pub and grill later that evening! It was a fabulous!
This past week Katie, Chris, and I went up North. Our first stop was Port Shepstone! This was located just south of Durban and had a beautiful beach. The weather was wonderful as well. After a few days there we went further North to Hluhluwe. While here we went into the Hluhluwe game reserve. It was wonderful! We ended up driving ourselves so we could be more independent. We were in the park by 6am and by 7:30 am we were watching a family of elephants! Oh it was wonderful! Through out the day we also saw giraffes, white rhino, water buffalo, zebras, bush pigs, bucks, Mylala, and some birds. I posted some pics. During our game drive we stopped at a curio shop did some browsing and stopped at the loo (restroom). Well, as Katie and I are coming out of the loo we see Chris walking and talking with this tour guide. He was also watching the elephants the same time we were, so we recognized him as he first helped us spot the elephants. Anyway, we end up meeting Chris and Tom (the tour guide) and Chris proceeds to tell me that Tom wants to give her a labola for me. He thought she was my mom and asked if he could marry me for 40 head of cattle. Chris said no, she is a hard worker. So he agreed to giver her 70 head of cattle. I just started laughing because it was so random and hilarious. I later find out that 70 head of cattle is a wonderful labola for the Zulu’s. Chris ended up talking to some folks at the hostel and they say that the labola is usually 11 head of cattle with a house, then a car. The women at the hostel were amazed that this guy offered 70 head of cattle. I ended up taking a picture with Tom because he is just this cute little guy…(as you will notice in my photo I posted). What a hoot. Chris also told Tom she wanted to see the cattle first and later told me she will do anything to earn a buck, and starts laughing. What a crazy Lady!!! Haha! Sunday we drove the 10 hour drive home to East London, where it was wet and chilly, 60 degrees, sick I know, Duluth is going to kill me this next winter.
As of now we are planning another visit to Cape Town. And then on the 30th of May my family and some of my friends will be arriving to SA to visit and travel! What an experience. Hope you are all well! I look forward to catching up with everyone when I arrive home!
*I tried posting pics but the Internet was not cooperating with me. Sorry!
Monday, May 21, 2007
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Friday, April 13, 2007
Odds and Ends
So after our eventful trip to Cape Town we decided to take another holiday up north with Katie’s Stepmom, Cindy and her friend Kelly from work. We headed out of East London on the 24th of March, Saturday and drove all day. We ended up in Umkomaas. Kelly wanted to do some scuba diving but the waves had been high all week along the coast. The waves reached 11 meters, equaling around 36 feet (this was in EL) this happens around every 10 years and occurs because of the lining of the sun and moon. Anyway she called a diving guide to see how diving was he stated, “Im going to be honest with you, diving is complete shit, you can not see a dam thing” Thanks for being so honest!! She ended up passing and on Sunday we were in the Drakensberg which was absolutely beautiful!! Once we were situated at our rondavel we decided to go horseback riding which was beautiful riding up the Drakensberg Mountains and the feeling of being on top of the world…
On Monday we did the Sani-pass which takes you to Lesotho! It was an adventure. It took us two hours to reach the top of the mountains. With the road we took it was illegal if you did not have a four wheel drive vehicle and now I know why!! The road itself was not smooth…at one time you hit a point where you are going up at a 24 degree angle, this is steep!!! I am so thankful I was in the back of the vehicle. I don’t think I would have made it far if I was in the front!!
5th of April
This week I went up to the Vincent shopping center to hang out with one of my co- workers, Tabisa. Just window shopping! Trust me, I didn’t get anything!! Anyway Tabisa has a 4 year old daughter!! She is adorable and I am going to tell you all about her since I have not spent quality time with any young children and you all know how much I love children. Tabisa’s daughter is named Ukho and she is a doll! We ended up doing some grocery shopping and I was talking with Ukho….and she is like do you sing…I responded that she may not want to hear me sing but I would love to hear her so she sang twinkle twinkle little star for me!! She asked how she sounded! Of course beautiful!! As I was pushing her around in the cart she was asking me all these questions that young children ask. One of them was if I had any kids? I told her no. She looked at me in dismay (I wish you could have seen her face) and asks why? My thoughts are hum, I must not be fun enough for her. I responded that I needed to wait until I came home…and as young children’s favorite question is she asked why again… As we were checking out I lifted her out of the cart and was holding her…she started touching/rubbing my skin and asked why I was so dirty (referring to my freckles). I was almost in tears as I was laughing so hard. I told her that I get these from the sun, she responded, “the sun makes you dirty?”! Isn’t she adorable! I told Tabisa that I wanted to make smores with her daughter! This is something that is unknown here but the supplies are available, I will have to see what I can do!!
For Easter weekend we went to Port St John’s and Coffee Bay. We started off in Port St. Johns and it was just a little too crazy for us. I was sick to my stomach on Friday when we arrived so I laid down and slept while Katie and Justin went out to eat. Well I wake up to this woman talking to herself (we were warned about this woman when we came to stay here). Anyway I wake up and she asks me why am I sleeping I tell her I was not feeling well. She asks me my name I respond and ask her hers she tells me she can not disclose this information. Ok? So we are having a conversation which is somewhat difficult because she really does not answer your questions or will start talking about another topic. During our discussion in mid sentence she asks me if I prefer hot raunchy sex or an intelligent conversation. I look at her wide eyed in disbelief that she would ask that question, respond and run off to the bathroom and call Katie to tell her to hurry back. This woman is quite the character as we had a few interesting conversations with her. On Sunday we left Port St. Johns and went to Coffee Bay. This was relaxing and a comfortable environment. On our way home I ended up having to work some of my magic. I was driving and see a car and this guy is flagging me down. I pull over as I think it is a check point for meat as we have gone through a few of those while we have been traveling. So I pull over and it is traffic control. DANG IT. The officer we will call him Officer A tells me I have been speeding. 106km in an 80km Opps. I tell Officer A I did not realize I was speeding (I am being honest here). Officer A asks me to come and see what he clocked me at. I look and he tells me to see Officer B. Officer B shows me that I would owe 500 rands (71 dollar ticket). I respond, “Your really not going to make me pay this are you?” Officer A states if they drop it what can I do for them. I am somewhat confused and ask, “Do you mean pay you under the table” Officer A raises his voice a little bit and says no, but repeats the question. I stated I could fork out 200 rands. They also ask for my license and while I am looking for this they have a normal conversation with me….how long have a been in SA, what have I been doing, do I like it here, where have I been traveling? So these officers are some pretty nice guys. I am still looking for my license and can not see it in my purse. I am somewhat freaking out as I CAN NOT find my license. I start taking out the things in my purse and both officers state that I should not do that and I need to put my things back in my purse. Officer A asks me if I have a license and I swear up and down that I do have one. I give them my student ID card instead. Officer B then states that they will drop the ticket if I put 100 rands (13 dollars) inside the door 100 rands, not 200 rands. Hell yeah!!! I am ok with that. So I get 100 rands and hand it to the officer….he points to the door. I put it in the door and tell them to have a good day and off I go!!! I was very calm during this incident for those of you who know me…you would be proud! Needless to say I had Katie drive the rest of the way home…and I found my license at home in the bedroom. A lot of good it does me there! Ha!
Well thats about all i have! Hope you are all well! Keep me updated on your life when you have a moment! Take Care!
On Monday we did the Sani-pass which takes you to Lesotho! It was an adventure. It took us two hours to reach the top of the mountains. With the road we took it was illegal if you did not have a four wheel drive vehicle and now I know why!! The road itself was not smooth…at one time you hit a point where you are going up at a 24 degree angle, this is steep!!! I am so thankful I was in the back of the vehicle. I don’t think I would have made it far if I was in the front!!
5th of April
This week I went up to the Vincent shopping center to hang out with one of my co- workers, Tabisa. Just window shopping! Trust me, I didn’t get anything!! Anyway Tabisa has a 4 year old daughter!! She is adorable and I am going to tell you all about her since I have not spent quality time with any young children and you all know how much I love children. Tabisa’s daughter is named Ukho and she is a doll! We ended up doing some grocery shopping and I was talking with Ukho….and she is like do you sing…I responded that she may not want to hear me sing but I would love to hear her so she sang twinkle twinkle little star for me!! She asked how she sounded! Of course beautiful!! As I was pushing her around in the cart she was asking me all these questions that young children ask. One of them was if I had any kids? I told her no. She looked at me in dismay (I wish you could have seen her face) and asks why? My thoughts are hum, I must not be fun enough for her. I responded that I needed to wait until I came home…and as young children’s favorite question is she asked why again… As we were checking out I lifted her out of the cart and was holding her…she started touching/rubbing my skin and asked why I was so dirty (referring to my freckles). I was almost in tears as I was laughing so hard. I told her that I get these from the sun, she responded, “the sun makes you dirty?”! Isn’t she adorable! I told Tabisa that I wanted to make smores with her daughter! This is something that is unknown here but the supplies are available, I will have to see what I can do!!
For Easter weekend we went to Port St John’s and Coffee Bay. We started off in Port St. Johns and it was just a little too crazy for us. I was sick to my stomach on Friday when we arrived so I laid down and slept while Katie and Justin went out to eat. Well I wake up to this woman talking to herself (we were warned about this woman when we came to stay here). Anyway I wake up and she asks me why am I sleeping I tell her I was not feeling well. She asks me my name I respond and ask her hers she tells me she can not disclose this information. Ok? So we are having a conversation which is somewhat difficult because she really does not answer your questions or will start talking about another topic. During our discussion in mid sentence she asks me if I prefer hot raunchy sex or an intelligent conversation. I look at her wide eyed in disbelief that she would ask that question, respond and run off to the bathroom and call Katie to tell her to hurry back. This woman is quite the character as we had a few interesting conversations with her. On Sunday we left Port St. Johns and went to Coffee Bay. This was relaxing and a comfortable environment. On our way home I ended up having to work some of my magic. I was driving and see a car and this guy is flagging me down. I pull over as I think it is a check point for meat as we have gone through a few of those while we have been traveling. So I pull over and it is traffic control. DANG IT. The officer we will call him Officer A tells me I have been speeding. 106km in an 80km Opps. I tell Officer A I did not realize I was speeding (I am being honest here). Officer A asks me to come and see what he clocked me at. I look and he tells me to see Officer B. Officer B shows me that I would owe 500 rands (71 dollar ticket). I respond, “Your really not going to make me pay this are you?” Officer A states if they drop it what can I do for them. I am somewhat confused and ask, “Do you mean pay you under the table” Officer A raises his voice a little bit and says no, but repeats the question. I stated I could fork out 200 rands. They also ask for my license and while I am looking for this they have a normal conversation with me….how long have a been in SA, what have I been doing, do I like it here, where have I been traveling? So these officers are some pretty nice guys. I am still looking for my license and can not see it in my purse. I am somewhat freaking out as I CAN NOT find my license. I start taking out the things in my purse and both officers state that I should not do that and I need to put my things back in my purse. Officer A asks me if I have a license and I swear up and down that I do have one. I give them my student ID card instead. Officer B then states that they will drop the ticket if I put 100 rands (13 dollars) inside the door 100 rands, not 200 rands. Hell yeah!!! I am ok with that. So I get 100 rands and hand it to the officer….he points to the door. I put it in the door and tell them to have a good day and off I go!!! I was very calm during this incident for those of you who know me…you would be proud! Needless to say I had Katie drive the rest of the way home…and I found my license at home in the bedroom. A lot of good it does me there! Ha!
Well thats about all i have! Hope you are all well! Keep me updated on your life when you have a moment! Take Care!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Hello Everyone! Sorry I did not get pics posted last week. The internet broke down as I was trying to accomplish this task. I have posted pics at this website, they are not labeled so sorry. Check this website out:
http://mnsu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2067782&l=34045&id=63900073
http://mnsu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2067782&l=34045&id=63900073
Friday, March 23, 2007
Spring Break in Cape Town!
I am starting my blog as I am trying to recover from our holiday. It has been a long eventful week I will only inform you of the highlights as we packed our week as full as we could. We ended up leaving East London the 9th after class and headed to Port Alfred as Justin had an acquaintance that we were going to stay with. His name was Edward, oh, what a guy. He was so excited about everything and quite the character. He was very helpful in informing us of activities to do on our holiday!
Saturday we finished our drive to Cape Town, around a ten hour drive. Did I mention there was no radio or air conditioning in the car?! And it was a hot one! You really didn’t notice the heat or not having a radio because the garden route was absolutely beautiful (clearing of throat, Dad you would love it! Hint, Hint)! Anyway, we arrived in Cape Town Saturday evening. I think the car ride made us crazy because we decided that we were going to go shark cage diving on Sunday. What was I thinking I am not so sure! I was so exhausted from the drive that I did not have a lot of time to think about it and the tour left at 5:30 am. So we are up and have a 2 hour drive…we finally arrive and are on the boat and at the diving sight. At this point I am somewhat nervous and wondering if we really would see a shark. The assistants on the boat cut up some bait to bait the shark. Not even ten minutes later…there is a shark in sight. YIKES. Our guide told us if we wanted to see the shark in the cage we better start putting our gear on. We were informed that the bait is not fed to the sharks because if the shark gets the bait they will leave. So the assistants would keep and eye on the bait and the shark, pulling the bait away from the shark as well as telling the people in the cage (3 to 5 people at once) to go down and look left, right, or strait forward. So I finally decide to put my wetsuit on and get in the cage otherwise I am afraid I will chicken out. Probably smart just to jump in because the water is FREEZING. I forgot about how cold the water was once the assistant said go down and look left!! Lets just say the whole time I was in the water I was in the fetal position, pushing myself underwater! I was also at the end of the cage and so badly wanted to ask the person next to me if I could switch spots so I could be in the middle! When the shark was on my side of the cage I decided it was about time to get out anyway!! It was about perfect timing because not soon afterwards the shark ended up getting the bait. We did not see him after that! Over all I would say it was a wonderful experience, for me anyway. Poor Katie spent most of the time hanging over the side of the boat.
Other activities we had the chance to do was drive to Cape of Good Hope (the most southern point of SA) as well as Chapman’s peak, they both were absolutely gorgeous! I will post some pics as I took way to many! We also had the chance to take a tour of Robbin Island and it was fabulous. Although there were a few distractions as there was a family who had three children. Lets just say the children were not well behaved as they were running all over the place and yelling in an empty prison! They were still cute though! Maybe I will have a better experience when I go back in June!
We also had the opportunity to take the cableway up Table Mountain! It was the last ride up so we saw the sun set and it was absolutely beautiful, especially with the fog rolling off Table Mountain like a table cloth. Katie and I also witnessed an engagement...it was so adorable and magical how he had set up the proposal! The next day we decided we were going to hike Table Mountain! The trail we took was called Platteklip Gorge. And it was quite the trail! I felt as though I was on a stair stepper for two hours. It was set up as a zig zag climbing stairs! But again it was worth it once we reached the top. A good work out in the legs and ass as well!
Wednesday we started our trip back to East London. We stopped at Montegu where we stayed at an hostel that once use to be horse stables as well as go to natural hot springs, which was nice and relaxing! We than hit the road for Outdshoorn! What a cute town. Katie and I went to a zoo type thing with African animals which was not bad as we had a humorous tour guide. We also had the chance to the Congo Caves, which I believe are the oldest caves in the world; don’t quote me on that though. Our last stop was Tsitsikamma. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and we decided to take another hike to a waterfall which was also beautiful! We finished the hike just in time as it started to rain…so we went back to the hostel and just relaxed and spent time by the fire place. We arrived back in East London on Sunday.
Some news I don’t think I have shared with you is that we have all moved in with a family here in East London. We were attending a Bahai event with Justin and talking about our internship, the university, and where we were living. Well Deana this amazing woman (and she is not amazing because she is letting us live with her for rent free) thought it was ridiculous that we were paying that much money for rent (more than I paid in Mankato) so she told us to move in with her. Katie and I thought it was a joke, but she was serious. So at the beginning of March we moved in with Deana, Ava and Grandma. Ava is Deana’s daughter who is 16 years old and quite the character…she reminds me of my little sister! And Grandma, oh Grandma. She was elsewhere when we moved in but was here when we arrived from Cape Town. I had my backpack on and had just walked through the door, not even having time to take my bag off and she gives me this huge hug and interduced herself as Grandma, I asked if that is what she wanted us to call her and she said yes! To be honest I don’t know her real name! Anyway, Grandma is Persian and speaks Farsee (forgive me for the spelling…this is how it sounds when pronounced) she does understands English but speaks little English. She knows enough to have small conversations with us! But I love talking to her because she so adorable. There will be times when she is in the kitchen preparing a meal or cleaning up and I will ask if she needs help and she occasionally say yes but on other occasions she will say no my dear and give me a hug and a kiss! She is such a doll!
Work is still a wonderful experience although I feel March has been one big holiday! I have a lot of catching up to do! Anyway, I must stop talking and let you get back to what you were previously doing! I hope you are all well and healthy. Take care. Always, Amber
Saturday we finished our drive to Cape Town, around a ten hour drive. Did I mention there was no radio or air conditioning in the car?! And it was a hot one! You really didn’t notice the heat or not having a radio because the garden route was absolutely beautiful (clearing of throat, Dad you would love it! Hint, Hint)! Anyway, we arrived in Cape Town Saturday evening. I think the car ride made us crazy because we decided that we were going to go shark cage diving on Sunday. What was I thinking I am not so sure! I was so exhausted from the drive that I did not have a lot of time to think about it and the tour left at 5:30 am. So we are up and have a 2 hour drive…we finally arrive and are on the boat and at the diving sight. At this point I am somewhat nervous and wondering if we really would see a shark. The assistants on the boat cut up some bait to bait the shark. Not even ten minutes later…there is a shark in sight. YIKES. Our guide told us if we wanted to see the shark in the cage we better start putting our gear on. We were informed that the bait is not fed to the sharks because if the shark gets the bait they will leave. So the assistants would keep and eye on the bait and the shark, pulling the bait away from the shark as well as telling the people in the cage (3 to 5 people at once) to go down and look left, right, or strait forward. So I finally decide to put my wetsuit on and get in the cage otherwise I am afraid I will chicken out. Probably smart just to jump in because the water is FREEZING. I forgot about how cold the water was once the assistant said go down and look left!! Lets just say the whole time I was in the water I was in the fetal position, pushing myself underwater! I was also at the end of the cage and so badly wanted to ask the person next to me if I could switch spots so I could be in the middle! When the shark was on my side of the cage I decided it was about time to get out anyway!! It was about perfect timing because not soon afterwards the shark ended up getting the bait. We did not see him after that! Over all I would say it was a wonderful experience, for me anyway. Poor Katie spent most of the time hanging over the side of the boat.
Other activities we had the chance to do was drive to Cape of Good Hope (the most southern point of SA) as well as Chapman’s peak, they both were absolutely gorgeous! I will post some pics as I took way to many! We also had the chance to take a tour of Robbin Island and it was fabulous. Although there were a few distractions as there was a family who had three children. Lets just say the children were not well behaved as they were running all over the place and yelling in an empty prison! They were still cute though! Maybe I will have a better experience when I go back in June!
We also had the opportunity to take the cableway up Table Mountain! It was the last ride up so we saw the sun set and it was absolutely beautiful, especially with the fog rolling off Table Mountain like a table cloth. Katie and I also witnessed an engagement...it was so adorable and magical how he had set up the proposal! The next day we decided we were going to hike Table Mountain! The trail we took was called Platteklip Gorge. And it was quite the trail! I felt as though I was on a stair stepper for two hours. It was set up as a zig zag climbing stairs! But again it was worth it once we reached the top. A good work out in the legs and ass as well!
Wednesday we started our trip back to East London. We stopped at Montegu where we stayed at an hostel that once use to be horse stables as well as go to natural hot springs, which was nice and relaxing! We than hit the road for Outdshoorn! What a cute town. Katie and I went to a zoo type thing with African animals which was not bad as we had a humorous tour guide. We also had the chance to the Congo Caves, which I believe are the oldest caves in the world; don’t quote me on that though. Our last stop was Tsitsikamma. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and we decided to take another hike to a waterfall which was also beautiful! We finished the hike just in time as it started to rain…so we went back to the hostel and just relaxed and spent time by the fire place. We arrived back in East London on Sunday.
Some news I don’t think I have shared with you is that we have all moved in with a family here in East London. We were attending a Bahai event with Justin and talking about our internship, the university, and where we were living. Well Deana this amazing woman (and she is not amazing because she is letting us live with her for rent free) thought it was ridiculous that we were paying that much money for rent (more than I paid in Mankato) so she told us to move in with her. Katie and I thought it was a joke, but she was serious. So at the beginning of March we moved in with Deana, Ava and Grandma. Ava is Deana’s daughter who is 16 years old and quite the character…she reminds me of my little sister! And Grandma, oh Grandma. She was elsewhere when we moved in but was here when we arrived from Cape Town. I had my backpack on and had just walked through the door, not even having time to take my bag off and she gives me this huge hug and interduced herself as Grandma, I asked if that is what she wanted us to call her and she said yes! To be honest I don’t know her real name! Anyway, Grandma is Persian and speaks Farsee (forgive me for the spelling…this is how it sounds when pronounced) she does understands English but speaks little English. She knows enough to have small conversations with us! But I love talking to her because she so adorable. There will be times when she is in the kitchen preparing a meal or cleaning up and I will ask if she needs help and she occasionally say yes but on other occasions she will say no my dear and give me a hug and a kiss! She is such a doll!
Work is still a wonderful experience although I feel March has been one big holiday! I have a lot of catching up to do! Anyway, I must stop talking and let you get back to what you were previously doing! I hope you are all well and healthy. Take care. Always, Amber
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Excitement in EL
Molo! It was an eventful weekend in East London. Thursday and Friday were rainy and gloomy. Things started to brighten up on Saturday morning, including our schedule. One of Justin’s friends called and asked if we wanted to participate in the surfers challenge. This is a 18 km marathon equaling about 11 miles. The marathon started out years back where paddlers and runners would race to see who could get from point A to point B the fastest. You can enter the race as a paddler, runner, or walker, but if you entered the race as a walker you had to walk, if you got caught running you would be disqualified. The three of us entered the race as walkers unaware of the running rule. This was a fabulous opportunity as we were on the coast majority of the marathon. Well, majority of the marathon Katie and I participated in. That story will come out soon. The challenge we participated in had a lot of walking in the sand and pebbles, (like on the north shore) anyway, this was a nice walk and Katie and I felt as though we were walking at a good pace, “Amber’s American pace. When we entered Gonubie the tide was high and we had to swim across the river. This was not bad as it was very rejuvenating and felt amazing. After our swim we went through Gonubie that was fun as we had onlookers cheer the runners, and walkers on. Well we get through Gonubie we hit the cut off point and were told we would not finish the race in time so to get on the bus and they would give us a ride to the finish. What a disappointment. Katie and I swore up and down that we were walking fast enough to finish this race, maybe not but the experience was wonderful!!!
Saturday night I had some friends call me (well, friends of a friend) to see if I wanted to go out. Luvo and Linge are there names. Luvo asked if we would be interested in attending a braai. I was up for this but Katie and Justin were worn out so I had Linge pick me up to attend this braai! What fun. I got there and there were about 25 people there. Luvo would not come talk to me as he later explained it was because he wanted me to meet people on my own, and that is just what I did. I was the only white person there, which did not bother me one bit. I was very social and introduced myself to others as well as others introducing themselves to me. I met some wonderful people and exchanged some numbers while there. Lux a fellow I met at the braai was so impressed with my handshake. For two reasons, because I did the xhosa handshake, and two because I had a nice grip. It was funny because after we shook hands he was like, where did you learn to shake hands like that? There was another occurrence where a black guy had entered the room I was in, his eyes grew big and he asked, “can I hug you?” I was a bit surprised but of course was not going to pass up a hug, as I don’t get very many here. After our hug he was said, “please don’t be offended but you are the first white woman I have ever hugged!” Later in the evening Luvo told me that everyone was talking about me (in xhosa) and of course I asked what they were saying and he had told me that everyone was so excited how I was interacting with everyone as well as everyone interacting with me…I am hoping this was a compliment. So we are this braai and there is music playing…what does this mean…dancing. Those of you, who know me, know that I am not that comfortable dancing. Well I am especially not going to be comfortable dancing with a crowd of people who have rhythm. So two women ask me to come and dance. I am hesitant and they get me to where everyone is dancing…they told me to show them my moves. I responded politely and said that I was a bit nervous to be dancing with a group of black people and that I really didn’t have any moves to show them. They just laughed, I told them I would take a rain check and Linge stated that it was ok that I was nervous. Thank goodness for that. I also held hands with a few people at the braai. Here in South Africa it is ok to hold hands with anybody. Male to male, female to female, or the opposite sex as friends you can hold hands and it is not portrayed awkward by society. But it does take getting use to when you are not use to this. One of my coworkers held hands with me a few weeks ago when we were out on home visits. Then at the braai I had about three guys just grab my hand, this usually happens when you are walking somewhere or this is what I have noticed/experienced. It always takes me by surprise and then I am like, oh right this is the culture here.
Sunday was another eventful day as we went out with one of Katie’s coworkers and her husband; Sally and Barry, what a wonderful couple. They wanted to show us some beaches that we have not seen yet and then take us out for lunch. We went to a restaurant at Kidd’s beach and I was sitting on the right side of the table as I had a view of the ocean while we were eating! It was fabulous.
Later in the afternoon we went over to another couples house and learned how to make Persian rice. It was delicious! It was fun learning how Nadia makes Persian rice, as well as home maid dressing. We had a wonderful meal with about 12 others and had wonderful conversations. The weekend was full of opportunities and excitement!! Katie, Justin and I are now getting ready for spring break, (12 days to be exact) we plan on renting a car and traveling to Capetown to do some sightseeing, hiking, wine tasting, and checking out the markets! Need to run. Take care.
Saturday night I had some friends call me (well, friends of a friend) to see if I wanted to go out. Luvo and Linge are there names. Luvo asked if we would be interested in attending a braai. I was up for this but Katie and Justin were worn out so I had Linge pick me up to attend this braai! What fun. I got there and there were about 25 people there. Luvo would not come talk to me as he later explained it was because he wanted me to meet people on my own, and that is just what I did. I was the only white person there, which did not bother me one bit. I was very social and introduced myself to others as well as others introducing themselves to me. I met some wonderful people and exchanged some numbers while there. Lux a fellow I met at the braai was so impressed with my handshake. For two reasons, because I did the xhosa handshake, and two because I had a nice grip. It was funny because after we shook hands he was like, where did you learn to shake hands like that? There was another occurrence where a black guy had entered the room I was in, his eyes grew big and he asked, “can I hug you?” I was a bit surprised but of course was not going to pass up a hug, as I don’t get very many here. After our hug he was said, “please don’t be offended but you are the first white woman I have ever hugged!” Later in the evening Luvo told me that everyone was talking about me (in xhosa) and of course I asked what they were saying and he had told me that everyone was so excited how I was interacting with everyone as well as everyone interacting with me…I am hoping this was a compliment. So we are this braai and there is music playing…what does this mean…dancing. Those of you, who know me, know that I am not that comfortable dancing. Well I am especially not going to be comfortable dancing with a crowd of people who have rhythm. So two women ask me to come and dance. I am hesitant and they get me to where everyone is dancing…they told me to show them my moves. I responded politely and said that I was a bit nervous to be dancing with a group of black people and that I really didn’t have any moves to show them. They just laughed, I told them I would take a rain check and Linge stated that it was ok that I was nervous. Thank goodness for that. I also held hands with a few people at the braai. Here in South Africa it is ok to hold hands with anybody. Male to male, female to female, or the opposite sex as friends you can hold hands and it is not portrayed awkward by society. But it does take getting use to when you are not use to this. One of my coworkers held hands with me a few weeks ago when we were out on home visits. Then at the braai I had about three guys just grab my hand, this usually happens when you are walking somewhere or this is what I have noticed/experienced. It always takes me by surprise and then I am like, oh right this is the culture here.
Sunday was another eventful day as we went out with one of Katie’s coworkers and her husband; Sally and Barry, what a wonderful couple. They wanted to show us some beaches that we have not seen yet and then take us out for lunch. We went to a restaurant at Kidd’s beach and I was sitting on the right side of the table as I had a view of the ocean while we were eating! It was fabulous.
Later in the afternoon we went over to another couples house and learned how to make Persian rice. It was delicious! It was fun learning how Nadia makes Persian rice, as well as home maid dressing. We had a wonderful meal with about 12 others and had wonderful conversations. The weekend was full of opportunities and excitement!! Katie, Justin and I are now getting ready for spring break, (12 days to be exact) we plan on renting a car and traveling to Capetown to do some sightseeing, hiking, wine tasting, and checking out the markets! Need to run. Take care.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Hello Everyone, sorry it has taken me a while to updated you.
I will start with the weekend of 9th through the 11th
On Friday we were heading to Fort Hare University to attempt to attend class as it has been a chore with the internet not working with us. Well on the way to campus low and behold my phone was stolen from me. I was somewhat up set at first but then thankful it was not anything else. The only reason one’s phone is stolen is for airtime. Most phones used are pre paid minutes. The dirty little bastards caught me at the right time because I had just put about 50 rand on my phone, a little under $10 worth. I also realize I am lucky as a friend Ben, (mentioned below) was mugged and had 2000 rand stolen, $285. He also was yelling for help but no one would come help him. I have been told by others if you are mugged do not expect help. Everyone will mind their own business.
Justin was invited by some Bahai friends to an African wedding on Saturday. We were all welcome to attend. As we walked in it looked like a traditional American wedding. Needless to say it was far from it. It started an 1 ½ late but that is African time! The prayers and vows were said and then the bride, groom, and party danced up and down the isle and then the majority of the guests started singing, hooting and hollering through out the ceremony it was beautiful. After that some friends and family of the bride and groom got up to talk about marriage and the couple, while this was happening the guests were being served food…yum it was delicious African food!!!
Last week was rough, I was really hating work. Somewhat emotional, what Amber emotional I know!!! We have one car for about ten people and the CPS team gets the car twice a week, but I only go out once a week. I have been setting up meetings to meet with my clients and majority of my meetings I have to cancel because I can never make it. I was suppose to have a meeting on Thursday this meeting was very important as I was struggling to make this appointment with another social worker and finally had to sent a letter to her telling her to set up a time for us to get together or I was going to close the case. None the less she phoned me a few days later and we set up this appointment. My meeting was set for 9:30 am on Thursday. She phoned me precisely at 9:30 am and asked where I was. I had not yet left the agency because the car was out. She said she than had to cancel with me because they were short staffed and she could not wait for me. I was also frustrated because the resources here are very limited. For our clients, research, everything possible we are limited. I voiced my concerns to my supervisor as she tried to ease my frustration but she also stated I need to stop being so hard on myself. Possibly.
This weekend Katie, Justin and I went to Hogsback. Oh how magical it was. We were in the mountains and when we awoke on Saturday morning there was a mist in the mountains and oh how gorgeous. We decided to do some hiking. Ben a friend we ment on Friday night came with as well. We got a map of the trails and went to see some waterfalls. Oh how gorgeous! So gorgeous it took us 7 hours!! It was a fabulous workout! A lot of climbing, and pulling yourself up the hills as well as holding yourself up so you do not fall down the mtn. Well we felt as though the 7 hours of hiking was not enough so we went along to see a secret water fall and then the sunset. The secret waterfall was not as beautiful as the scenery around it. We were basically on this cliff that had a beautiful panoramic view! It was wonderful. Then we did some more climbing and went to a different location for the sunset all I can say is “breath taking”, absolutely stunning.
Work on Monday was better, I defiantly needed the weekend away. I now understand why social workers or any body in that case can never get anything done. I have been working on a case to remove a child from a hospital for a safety placement. The hospital said the child needed to be out by Monday. Ok, so I had a placement and everything set up, went into the hospital on Monday to remove the child they made us wait for three hours before someone came in and said that they did not know what was going on! Talk about communication problems. I talked to the woman and explained the situation to her and she was like, ok I guess that works. Ridiculous!
I hope everyone is doing fine and having a wonderful time. Keep me posted on life when you have time!
I will start with the weekend of 9th through the 11th
On Friday we were heading to Fort Hare University to attempt to attend class as it has been a chore with the internet not working with us. Well on the way to campus low and behold my phone was stolen from me. I was somewhat up set at first but then thankful it was not anything else. The only reason one’s phone is stolen is for airtime. Most phones used are pre paid minutes. The dirty little bastards caught me at the right time because I had just put about 50 rand on my phone, a little under $10 worth. I also realize I am lucky as a friend Ben, (mentioned below) was mugged and had 2000 rand stolen, $285. He also was yelling for help but no one would come help him. I have been told by others if you are mugged do not expect help. Everyone will mind their own business.
Justin was invited by some Bahai friends to an African wedding on Saturday. We were all welcome to attend. As we walked in it looked like a traditional American wedding. Needless to say it was far from it. It started an 1 ½ late but that is African time! The prayers and vows were said and then the bride, groom, and party danced up and down the isle and then the majority of the guests started singing, hooting and hollering through out the ceremony it was beautiful. After that some friends and family of the bride and groom got up to talk about marriage and the couple, while this was happening the guests were being served food…yum it was delicious African food!!!
Last week was rough, I was really hating work. Somewhat emotional, what Amber emotional I know!!! We have one car for about ten people and the CPS team gets the car twice a week, but I only go out once a week. I have been setting up meetings to meet with my clients and majority of my meetings I have to cancel because I can never make it. I was suppose to have a meeting on Thursday this meeting was very important as I was struggling to make this appointment with another social worker and finally had to sent a letter to her telling her to set up a time for us to get together or I was going to close the case. None the less she phoned me a few days later and we set up this appointment. My meeting was set for 9:30 am on Thursday. She phoned me precisely at 9:30 am and asked where I was. I had not yet left the agency because the car was out. She said she than had to cancel with me because they were short staffed and she could not wait for me. I was also frustrated because the resources here are very limited. For our clients, research, everything possible we are limited. I voiced my concerns to my supervisor as she tried to ease my frustration but she also stated I need to stop being so hard on myself. Possibly.
This weekend Katie, Justin and I went to Hogsback. Oh how magical it was. We were in the mountains and when we awoke on Saturday morning there was a mist in the mountains and oh how gorgeous. We decided to do some hiking. Ben a friend we ment on Friday night came with as well. We got a map of the trails and went to see some waterfalls. Oh how gorgeous! So gorgeous it took us 7 hours!! It was a fabulous workout! A lot of climbing, and pulling yourself up the hills as well as holding yourself up so you do not fall down the mtn. Well we felt as though the 7 hours of hiking was not enough so we went along to see a secret water fall and then the sunset. The secret waterfall was not as beautiful as the scenery around it. We were basically on this cliff that had a beautiful panoramic view! It was wonderful. Then we did some more climbing and went to a different location for the sunset all I can say is “breath taking”, absolutely stunning.
Work on Monday was better, I defiantly needed the weekend away. I now understand why social workers or any body in that case can never get anything done. I have been working on a case to remove a child from a hospital for a safety placement. The hospital said the child needed to be out by Monday. Ok, so I had a placement and everything set up, went into the hospital on Monday to remove the child they made us wait for three hours before someone came in and said that they did not know what was going on! Talk about communication problems. I talked to the woman and explained the situation to her and she was like, ok I guess that works. Ridiculous!
I hope everyone is doing fine and having a wonderful time. Keep me posted on life when you have time!
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Cultural Opps
Cultural Opps
I was at work this week and was drinking some tea and I heard Sister Somana ask who was using her tea cup. Apparently I was, unaware of it. She had stated, “Amber, in our culture one never uses an elder’s things.” I responded that I was sorry and would not do this again. I was unaware I was using her cup because we have two shelves of cups in the cupboard, the bottom shelf is cups that people brought in to use, and the cups on the top shelf are cups that anyone can use. Well now I know!! And I am glad she has informed me of this.
Work this week as been slow. I had one of my clients come in this week for an office visit. It went well as far as language barriers go…but she defiantly is not happy with the system. She asked me if I feel like a real human being at the end of the day after I am done filling out my reports.
During one of our lunches I was chatting with Tando and Thimbakazi about food and authentic African food. They told me that next time we go out on home visits we can stop where they are cooking lamb, lamb head that is and try some of it. They tell me it is delicious. We will see. Although Smacky who works in the foster care program said some time before May she will show us how to clean the lamb head, cook it and eat it! That may be more of an experience.
I went to go visit one of my clients in the hospital today. He is the four month old I have mentioned earlier. Well I go into the ward he was at last week and they told me they moved him to a different ward. I go to the ward the child is suppose to be at, and he is not there. I asked where this child was because this is what I was told. Both wards were unable to tell me where this child was located at. They had no documentation on where he was located at. I had to call the social worker from the hospital and she told me the ward that the child was in.
So there are three student social workers, working at the agency. And one of them drives me up the wall. No, it is not Justin, although that could be possible at one point in this trip. Hehe. His name is Speech, and I just go crazy. Do not get me wrong he is a very nice guy and a gentleman. So, Monday Speech and I are in our office and I am trying to write some of my progress notes. Speech starts talking to me about confidentially and how important it is, and how to use the internet. He has gone off on other topics as well but any topic he brings up he explains it like I know nothing about it. He treats both Justin and I as if we do not understand ANYTHING. I know I am in a foreign country and there is going to be some things I do not understand. But explaining internet to me like I have no clue what it is. Ridiculous. This is really what drives me up the wall and those of you who really know me will understand. If something falls on the floor or the door needs to be opened he will do it. He always tells me to sit down. The other day I was shutting the shades to our office and he is like, “Amber, why don’t you have me do that.” I told him that was ok I could handle it. Than today they were moving things around the office and I was going to help but Speech stopped me and said, “No, Amber you sit down and relax.” Sorry but I don’t think I can watch people work and just relax. I left the office. Saartjie
(Sar-kee) told me this is how they work in SA, and to relax while I can. We will see about that.
Gotta run. Hope everyone is doing well! Miss you!
I was at work this week and was drinking some tea and I heard Sister Somana ask who was using her tea cup. Apparently I was, unaware of it. She had stated, “Amber, in our culture one never uses an elder’s things.” I responded that I was sorry and would not do this again. I was unaware I was using her cup because we have two shelves of cups in the cupboard, the bottom shelf is cups that people brought in to use, and the cups on the top shelf are cups that anyone can use. Well now I know!! And I am glad she has informed me of this.
Work this week as been slow. I had one of my clients come in this week for an office visit. It went well as far as language barriers go…but she defiantly is not happy with the system. She asked me if I feel like a real human being at the end of the day after I am done filling out my reports.
During one of our lunches I was chatting with Tando and Thimbakazi about food and authentic African food. They told me that next time we go out on home visits we can stop where they are cooking lamb, lamb head that is and try some of it. They tell me it is delicious. We will see. Although Smacky who works in the foster care program said some time before May she will show us how to clean the lamb head, cook it and eat it! That may be more of an experience.
I went to go visit one of my clients in the hospital today. He is the four month old I have mentioned earlier. Well I go into the ward he was at last week and they told me they moved him to a different ward. I go to the ward the child is suppose to be at, and he is not there. I asked where this child was because this is what I was told. Both wards were unable to tell me where this child was located at. They had no documentation on where he was located at. I had to call the social worker from the hospital and she told me the ward that the child was in.
So there are three student social workers, working at the agency. And one of them drives me up the wall. No, it is not Justin, although that could be possible at one point in this trip. Hehe. His name is Speech, and I just go crazy. Do not get me wrong he is a very nice guy and a gentleman. So, Monday Speech and I are in our office and I am trying to write some of my progress notes. Speech starts talking to me about confidentially and how important it is, and how to use the internet. He has gone off on other topics as well but any topic he brings up he explains it like I know nothing about it. He treats both Justin and I as if we do not understand ANYTHING. I know I am in a foreign country and there is going to be some things I do not understand. But explaining internet to me like I have no clue what it is. Ridiculous. This is really what drives me up the wall and those of you who really know me will understand. If something falls on the floor or the door needs to be opened he will do it. He always tells me to sit down. The other day I was shutting the shades to our office and he is like, “Amber, why don’t you have me do that.” I told him that was ok I could handle it. Than today they were moving things around the office and I was going to help but Speech stopped me and said, “No, Amber you sit down and relax.” Sorry but I don’t think I can watch people work and just relax. I left the office. Saartjie
(Sar-kee) told me this is how they work in SA, and to relax while I can. We will see about that.
Gotta run. Hope everyone is doing well! Miss you!
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Work
Hello everyone! Just wanted to drop everyone a quick note and inform you of the knowledge I am obtaining. This week I have visited a few agencies to learn what services and programs they provide as well as how they work with child welfare. I found out from the hospital social worker that transplants are not that common here. They had one kidney transplant in South Africa last year. I asked if people are aware of what becoming a donor will do for someone. She stated that people know but with the Xhosa culture you need to be buried with all your organs, if not it is believed that your ancestors will not be fond of you, if you do donate your organs. I also found out by a social worker today that the Eastern Cape is the poorest province in SA. During the apartheid unfortunate individuals were told to come to this area. This is why the Eastern Cape is underdeveloped compared to other provinces (this is what I was told).
Tuesday was a rough day at work. There were two adorable boys (6 and 7 years old) that were brought in by two family members (mother neglecting the children) and told Thimbakazi that they did not want the boys anymore and it was either we take them and do something with them or they were going to be left on the street. When the boys were left it was so said to see their faces, I couldn’t imagine how they were feeling as they listened to not being wanted by their family members.
On Thursday I had the chance to go to the hospital and see one of my clients (a 4 month old baby boy). I went in there and asked where the babies were located and received directions. Once I entered the baby wing I asked which one was my client and they pointed to him, didn't ask who I was, what I was doing, or anything. Interesting to see how easy it is to see someone at a hospital here. The child is adorable and as his social worker the next steps I will take is to find a safe home for him.
All for now. Hope everyone is well. Take care and keep me updated.
Tuesday was a rough day at work. There were two adorable boys (6 and 7 years old) that were brought in by two family members (mother neglecting the children) and told Thimbakazi that they did not want the boys anymore and it was either we take them and do something with them or they were going to be left on the street. When the boys were left it was so said to see their faces, I couldn’t imagine how they were feeling as they listened to not being wanted by their family members.
On Thursday I had the chance to go to the hospital and see one of my clients (a 4 month old baby boy). I went in there and asked where the babies were located and received directions. Once I entered the baby wing I asked which one was my client and they pointed to him, didn't ask who I was, what I was doing, or anything. Interesting to see how easy it is to see someone at a hospital here. The child is adorable and as his social worker the next steps I will take is to find a safe home for him.
All for now. Hope everyone is well. Take care and keep me updated.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Molo
Molo Everybody,
I hope this finds you well. So on Thursday I received a case of my own and had the chance to attempt to go out on a home visit. At first I was scared to death, but as the day passed and a few phone calls that needed to be made were done…I felt much better. Home visits are always trying as homes are not always visible, numbered, or the homes themselves have just seemed to pick themselves up and moved somewhere. From the experiences I have had there are some days where I feel like you are spending more time asking where this house number is than really doing home visits. The home visit I attempted today was interesting. The two women I went out with today Tando and Timbakazee were asking directions for a township we needed to get too, they asked this young boy (7 or 8 y.o.a.) he was traveling the same place we needed to get too! What a coincidence! Tando told him that we would give him a ride...and he gets in the car. My first thoughts are like didn’t this child’s parents teach him anything. This child, Leon was so nice, we dropped him off and then he ran after us to tell us where in the house was in the township. He joined us again in the car for this adventure. We could not find the house we needed to find and we once again dropped Lean off. As he was getting out Tando reminded him that he should not get into a car with strangers because he could be kidnapped…wonder if he thought about that before he got in the car with us???
This weekend Katie, Justin and I went to Cintsa (Buccaneers Backpacking) for the weekend! It was so nice to get out and do something. Uli gave us a ride on Friday evening and we had the opportunity to attend our first braai (grilling in America) in SA! The food was delicious they had lamb, chicken, pork, potatoes, bread, ect. Saturday was more of a gloomy day, it was rainy and cloudy. When it stopped raining we went on the beach and explored. As Justin found some hermit crabs and anomies that he shared with us. On his hunt he also found an octopus!! I have a picture of this but it is difficult to see as the octopus disguised itself. The beach was beautiful as you can tell by the pictures I have posted! Saturday evening Buccaneers had a traditional Xhosa dinner for us! It was the best meal and evening I have had since I have been here and it was quite the experience. Katie and I ended up getting seated by a man named Peter and he was a riot!! He is originally from Maulta, and gave us and geography lesson with beer bottles, cups, and spoons. He was also explaining to us that he was on holiday in search for his third wife. He was informing us that he has all the “qualities” needed to be a wonderful husband such as: teaching geography, knowing astronomy (to charm the ladies, as he preformed this for Katie and I), knitting, and having a baby face. The “qualities” Peter was looking for in his third wife was to be forty years younger than him, understand the game cricket, be American, and know where Maulta is. Katie and I did not quite meet his standards, we both are ok with this The world is quite small, and just how small. We met some individuals from Minnesota at Buccaneers, but not only were they from Minnesota one of the ladies went to the same high school as Katie! How bazaar. Sunday was bright and sunny we all went horse back riding on the beach and the scenery was beautiful. We also had a short time to lay on the beach and relax which was perfect for me as I didn’t have the chance to burn!!!
There are also a few things that I have wanted to mention but just have not had the time. So here I go.
*Children here to not sit in car seats, I don’t even know if they have car seats here. I gasp every time I see a child standing in front seat of the car or just sitting on someone’s lap. Obviously this is some what different than the states.
*The weather here is beautiful; as it is summer here, last Monday it was 98 degrees. This type of weather is normal for February as well. But I don’t believe I have mentioned that there is no air conditioning where Katie and I live, where we work or the vehicles we ride in. Just the window and the breeze, and if there is no breeze we get a little sweatier than we want!! If there is a breeze it is beautiful, we have the windows open 24/7 and do not have the screens that we have at home so sometimes we have mosquitoes sleeping with us. We have what Marianna calls burglar bars. These bars are on our windows so basically if someone wants in, it is quite difficult. What a wonderful preventative!!
*I have also found out there are no mandated reporters here in SA. YIKES!
*I have also had the chance to have some corn on the cob from a village! I was going to pass but Tando said, “Amber you need to explore and experience this” so I bought one! It was delicious and I would have another one at some point. Tando and Timbakazz showed me how they were cooked, as there is a few dozen that is cooked in a big barrel and then sold to individuals!
My experiences have been wonderful here in SA. I hope everyone is doing well in the states. Take care!!
I hope this finds you well. So on Thursday I received a case of my own and had the chance to attempt to go out on a home visit. At first I was scared to death, but as the day passed and a few phone calls that needed to be made were done…I felt much better. Home visits are always trying as homes are not always visible, numbered, or the homes themselves have just seemed to pick themselves up and moved somewhere. From the experiences I have had there are some days where I feel like you are spending more time asking where this house number is than really doing home visits. The home visit I attempted today was interesting. The two women I went out with today Tando and Timbakazee were asking directions for a township we needed to get too, they asked this young boy (7 or 8 y.o.a.) he was traveling the same place we needed to get too! What a coincidence! Tando told him that we would give him a ride...and he gets in the car. My first thoughts are like didn’t this child’s parents teach him anything. This child, Leon was so nice, we dropped him off and then he ran after us to tell us where in the house was in the township. He joined us again in the car for this adventure. We could not find the house we needed to find and we once again dropped Lean off. As he was getting out Tando reminded him that he should not get into a car with strangers because he could be kidnapped…wonder if he thought about that before he got in the car with us???
This weekend Katie, Justin and I went to Cintsa (Buccaneers Backpacking) for the weekend! It was so nice to get out and do something. Uli gave us a ride on Friday evening and we had the opportunity to attend our first braai (grilling in America) in SA! The food was delicious they had lamb, chicken, pork, potatoes, bread, ect. Saturday was more of a gloomy day, it was rainy and cloudy. When it stopped raining we went on the beach and explored. As Justin found some hermit crabs and anomies that he shared with us. On his hunt he also found an octopus!! I have a picture of this but it is difficult to see as the octopus disguised itself. The beach was beautiful as you can tell by the pictures I have posted! Saturday evening Buccaneers had a traditional Xhosa dinner for us! It was the best meal and evening I have had since I have been here and it was quite the experience. Katie and I ended up getting seated by a man named Peter and he was a riot!! He is originally from Maulta, and gave us and geography lesson with beer bottles, cups, and spoons. He was also explaining to us that he was on holiday in search for his third wife. He was informing us that he has all the “qualities” needed to be a wonderful husband such as: teaching geography, knowing astronomy (to charm the ladies, as he preformed this for Katie and I), knitting, and having a baby face. The “qualities” Peter was looking for in his third wife was to be forty years younger than him, understand the game cricket, be American, and know where Maulta is. Katie and I did not quite meet his standards, we both are ok with this The world is quite small, and just how small. We met some individuals from Minnesota at Buccaneers, but not only were they from Minnesota one of the ladies went to the same high school as Katie! How bazaar. Sunday was bright and sunny we all went horse back riding on the beach and the scenery was beautiful. We also had a short time to lay on the beach and relax which was perfect for me as I didn’t have the chance to burn!!!
There are also a few things that I have wanted to mention but just have not had the time. So here I go.
*Children here to not sit in car seats, I don’t even know if they have car seats here. I gasp every time I see a child standing in front seat of the car or just sitting on someone’s lap. Obviously this is some what different than the states.
*The weather here is beautiful; as it is summer here, last Monday it was 98 degrees. This type of weather is normal for February as well. But I don’t believe I have mentioned that there is no air conditioning where Katie and I live, where we work or the vehicles we ride in. Just the window and the breeze, and if there is no breeze we get a little sweatier than we want!! If there is a breeze it is beautiful, we have the windows open 24/7 and do not have the screens that we have at home so sometimes we have mosquitoes sleeping with us. We have what Marianna calls burglar bars. These bars are on our windows so basically if someone wants in, it is quite difficult. What a wonderful preventative!!
*I have also found out there are no mandated reporters here in SA. YIKES!
*I have also had the chance to have some corn on the cob from a village! I was going to pass but Tando said, “Amber you need to explore and experience this” so I bought one! It was delicious and I would have another one at some point. Tando and Timbakazz showed me how they were cooked, as there is a few dozen that is cooked in a big barrel and then sold to individuals!
My experiences have been wonderful here in SA. I hope everyone is doing well in the states. Take care!!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Hello
OUCH! We had a laid back weekend and spent our Saturday afternoon at the beach, hence to beginning my blog with ouch. I have this amazing sun screen that doesn’t even allow me tan, but I happened to miss a few spots on my body and look like a spotted leopard. I believe I will be asking for Katie’s help next time!
We did not get to go kayaking as all the kayaks were all owned privately. Sunday Katie and I checked out the Esplanade which was beautiful and we walked up and down the beach way, as well as looking at some of the items that locals were selling. We also tried to investigate transportation for this upcoming weekend but had no luck. We would like to go to Cintsa but there are no busses that stop there. We could take a taxi but that is about 480 rand both ways, equaling $70 American dollars. Transportation is probably the biggest draw back for us Americans as there is no set transportation here; our only options are taxis or mini buses, and the mini buses both pick up and drop off at certain locations.
Work has been going well this week; this week and next week are filled with orientation workshops for all staff, what fun!! I have also had the chance to get together with Colette, my supervisor and discuss what I will be doing the next few months! After our meeting I was very excited learning that I will have five cases, two dealing with preventative issues, two dealing with foster care, and one with reunification with the biological family. I am excited about these cases as I believe it will be a wonderful experience. I will also be putting together a focus group with teenagers that have behavioral problems. This program is the one that scares me the most. But I know once I get it started it will be ok and I have a wonderful team I can ask for advice. I will also be doing intake once a week (these are the cases that are new to the CW Society). I will be working on a research project with Boomie, this is something I did not have the opportunity to discuss with him yet this week, as he is assisting on the orientations and wants to finish that up. I do know I will be assisting him in research with his home health type project. It will be an educational and eventful 4 months.
While talking to Colette I have learned that the CPU (Police) here are not as active in assisting the Child Welfare Society as necessary. For instance, there have been two instances where the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told anyone. We had a mother come in this week and wonder where we placed her children, the agency was unaware of this placement. Come to find out the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told the CW Society about this. There have been a few times the Society has requested the CPU to assist them in a removal of a child and the CPU will not show up. The week I arrived here one of the ladies at the agency was mugged right outside of the agency (no worries we have taken precautions and have followed them!) and it took two hours for the police to show up. Colette has told me, “My dear” it’s the way CPU works. Colette has also informed me that she is putting together networking meetings to work on the CPU and the CW Society’s relationship!
All for now! Hope everyone is well!
We did not get to go kayaking as all the kayaks were all owned privately. Sunday Katie and I checked out the Esplanade which was beautiful and we walked up and down the beach way, as well as looking at some of the items that locals were selling. We also tried to investigate transportation for this upcoming weekend but had no luck. We would like to go to Cintsa but there are no busses that stop there. We could take a taxi but that is about 480 rand both ways, equaling $70 American dollars. Transportation is probably the biggest draw back for us Americans as there is no set transportation here; our only options are taxis or mini buses, and the mini buses both pick up and drop off at certain locations.
Work has been going well this week; this week and next week are filled with orientation workshops for all staff, what fun!! I have also had the chance to get together with Colette, my supervisor and discuss what I will be doing the next few months! After our meeting I was very excited learning that I will have five cases, two dealing with preventative issues, two dealing with foster care, and one with reunification with the biological family. I am excited about these cases as I believe it will be a wonderful experience. I will also be putting together a focus group with teenagers that have behavioral problems. This program is the one that scares me the most. But I know once I get it started it will be ok and I have a wonderful team I can ask for advice. I will also be doing intake once a week (these are the cases that are new to the CW Society). I will be working on a research project with Boomie, this is something I did not have the opportunity to discuss with him yet this week, as he is assisting on the orientations and wants to finish that up. I do know I will be assisting him in research with his home health type project. It will be an educational and eventful 4 months.
While talking to Colette I have learned that the CPU (Police) here are not as active in assisting the Child Welfare Society as necessary. For instance, there have been two instances where the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told anyone. We had a mother come in this week and wonder where we placed her children, the agency was unaware of this placement. Come to find out the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told the CW Society about this. There have been a few times the Society has requested the CPU to assist them in a removal of a child and the CPU will not show up. The week I arrived here one of the ladies at the agency was mugged right outside of the agency (no worries we have taken precautions and have followed them!) and it took two hours for the police to show up. Colette has told me, “My dear” it’s the way CPU works. Colette has also informed me that she is putting together networking meetings to work on the CPU and the CW Society’s relationship!
All for now! Hope everyone is well!
Hello
OUCH! We had a laid back weekend and spent our Saturday afternoon at the beach, hence to beginning my blog with ouch. I have this amazing sun screen that doesn’t even allow me tan, but I happened to miss a few spots on my body and look like a spotted leopard. I believe I will be asking for Katie’s help next time!
We did not get to go kayaking as all the kayaks were all owned privately. Sunday Katie and I checked out the Esplanade which was beautiful and we walked up and down the beach way, as well as looking at some of the items that locals were selling. We also tried to investigate transportation for this upcoming weekend but had no luck. We would like to go to Cintsa but there are no busses that stop there. We could take a taxi but that is about 480 rand both ways, equaling $70 American dollars. Transportation is probably the biggest draw back for us Americans as there is no set transportation here; our only options are taxis or mini buses, and the mini buses both pick up and drop off at certain locations.
Work has been going well this week; this week and next week are filled with orientation workshops for all staff, what fun!! I have also had the chance to get together with Colette, my supervisor and discuss what I will be doing the next few months! After our meeting I was very excited learning that I will have five cases, two dealing with preventative issues, two dealing with foster care, and one with reunification with the biological family. I am excited about these cases as I believe it will be a wonderful experience. I will also be putting together a focus group with teenagers that have behavioral problems. This program is the one that scares me the most. But I know once I get it started it will be ok and I have a wonderful team I can ask for advice. I will also be doing intake once a week (these are the cases that are new to the CW Society). I will be working on a research project with Boomie, this is something I did not have the opportunity to discuss with him yet this week, as he is assisting on the orientations and wants to finish that up. I do know I will be assisting him in research with his home health type project. It will be an educational and eventful 4 months.
While talking to Colette I have learned that the CPU (Police) here are not as active in assisting the Child Welfare Society as necessary. For instance, there have been two instances where the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told anyone. We had a mother come in this week and wonder where we placed her children, the agency was unaware of this placement. Come to find out the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told the CW Society about this. There have been a few times the Society has requested the CPU to assist them in a removal of a child and the CPU will not show up. The week I arrived here one of the ladies at the agency was mugged right outside of the agency (no worries we have taken precautions and have followed them!) and it took two hours for the police to show up. Colette has told me, “My dear” it’s the way CPU works. Colette has also informed me that she is putting together networking meetings to work on the CPU and the CW Society’s relationship!
All for now! Hope everyone is well!
We did not get to go kayaking as all the kayaks were all owned privately. Sunday Katie and I checked out the Esplanade which was beautiful and we walked up and down the beach way, as well as looking at some of the items that locals were selling. We also tried to investigate transportation for this upcoming weekend but had no luck. We would like to go to Cintsa but there are no busses that stop there. We could take a taxi but that is about 480 rand both ways, equaling $70 American dollars. Transportation is probably the biggest draw back for us Americans as there is no set transportation here; our only options are taxis or mini buses, and the mini buses both pick up and drop off at certain locations.
Work has been going well this week; this week and next week are filled with orientation workshops for all staff, what fun!! I have also had the chance to get together with Colette, my supervisor and discuss what I will be doing the next few months! After our meeting I was very excited learning that I will have five cases, two dealing with preventative issues, two dealing with foster care, and one with reunification with the biological family. I am excited about these cases as I believe it will be a wonderful experience. I will also be putting together a focus group with teenagers that have behavioral problems. This program is the one that scares me the most. But I know once I get it started it will be ok and I have a wonderful team I can ask for advice. I will also be doing intake once a week (these are the cases that are new to the CW Society). I will be working on a research project with Boomie, this is something I did not have the opportunity to discuss with him yet this week, as he is assisting on the orientations and wants to finish that up. I do know I will be assisting him in research with his home health type project. It will be an educational and eventful 4 months.
While talking to Colette I have learned that the CPU (Police) here are not as active in assisting the Child Welfare Society as necessary. For instance, there have been two instances where the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told anyone. We had a mother come in this week and wonder where we placed her children, the agency was unaware of this placement. Come to find out the CPU have removed the children from the home and have not told the CW Society about this. There have been a few times the Society has requested the CPU to assist them in a removal of a child and the CPU will not show up. The week I arrived here one of the ladies at the agency was mugged right outside of the agency (no worries we have taken precautions and have followed them!) and it took two hours for the police to show up. Colette has told me, “My dear” it’s the way CPU works. Colette has also informed me that she is putting together networking meetings to work on the CPU and the CW Society’s relationship!
All for now! Hope everyone is well!
Friday, January 19, 2007
Life in the Eastern Cape
Hello Everyone,
Thank you for your responses, I have not yet figured out how to respond individually so sorry. I started practicum with my agency (Child Welfare Society) in Southernwood on Monday the 15th and have enjoyed it thus far. When I went in Monday I was told just to follow the social workers around for the week. Fair enough.
Monday and Thursday I went out on home visits with Zide and Timbakazee, Monday, we traveled all over East London (EL) which was nice since I had not yet seen the town. I went to some townships that were middle income as well as some very poor areas. The poorer areas consisted of homes that were possibly the size of 6 x 6, built from anything between cardboard, scrap wood, or metal, with three or four individuals living in them. There is no running water in any of the homes from the township but a communal water pump and it did look like there was electricity in all homes we have been in. Finding addresses in these townships were very difficult, all the homes are not numbered or not in order. So Zide or Timbakazee would ask individuals where number 341 was, ect.
Thursday I had learned much more about the CPS system. Learning that if children are removed from their homes the parents have as much time to solve the issue that had caused their children to be removed. It is very important here in SA that children are reunited with their families. Also if the children lives in a poor township and are removed the SOWKers try to place the children in the same area because they believe leaving the children in the same environment is very important.
Tuesday I went with Taran to the Children’s homes that the agency supports. The Sunshine home is a home with older children, it was fun as I had spent about an hour there with three young boys, one of them asked me if he could come home to America with me! How cute! They also told me how to say hello (mor-low) in xhosa (said – cosa), as I am learning from my co-workers as well. I also went to another children’s home that we support, forgive me because I do not remember the name, this is basically with toddlers and infants, and a few teenagers. Walking into this house was trying as I had three or four toddlers run to me and want held. One of them had a fit as I had to put her down because there was an infant crying and no one came to retrieve her.
Wednesday I had the opportunity to leave the agency with Boomie, the development director to a rural area and see the project he is starting up, which is like a home health service, it seems beneficial to this area, although the workers do not have any training in the health field. They are to be at the homes to assist the individuals in an assistance and take the individuals vitals, it is also interesting to know that these workers are suppose to have ten clients, but they are to find their own clients.
Outside of work it has been an adventure to know the city as well as the people who live in the city. There are opposing views here in E.L. about what and where is safe depending on whom you talk to. No matter what, we are always in at 7pm because of safety reasons.
This weekend Katie, Justin and I plan on going to the beach and taking Kayaking lessons!!! I am so excited as this is something I have always wanted to do.
Thank you for your responses, I have not yet figured out how to respond individually so sorry. I started practicum with my agency (Child Welfare Society) in Southernwood on Monday the 15th and have enjoyed it thus far. When I went in Monday I was told just to follow the social workers around for the week. Fair enough.
Monday and Thursday I went out on home visits with Zide and Timbakazee, Monday, we traveled all over East London (EL) which was nice since I had not yet seen the town. I went to some townships that were middle income as well as some very poor areas. The poorer areas consisted of homes that were possibly the size of 6 x 6, built from anything between cardboard, scrap wood, or metal, with three or four individuals living in them. There is no running water in any of the homes from the township but a communal water pump and it did look like there was electricity in all homes we have been in. Finding addresses in these townships were very difficult, all the homes are not numbered or not in order. So Zide or Timbakazee would ask individuals where number 341 was, ect.
Thursday I had learned much more about the CPS system. Learning that if children are removed from their homes the parents have as much time to solve the issue that had caused their children to be removed. It is very important here in SA that children are reunited with their families. Also if the children lives in a poor township and are removed the SOWKers try to place the children in the same area because they believe leaving the children in the same environment is very important.
Tuesday I went with Taran to the Children’s homes that the agency supports. The Sunshine home is a home with older children, it was fun as I had spent about an hour there with three young boys, one of them asked me if he could come home to America with me! How cute! They also told me how to say hello (mor-low) in xhosa (said – cosa), as I am learning from my co-workers as well. I also went to another children’s home that we support, forgive me because I do not remember the name, this is basically with toddlers and infants, and a few teenagers. Walking into this house was trying as I had three or four toddlers run to me and want held. One of them had a fit as I had to put her down because there was an infant crying and no one came to retrieve her.
Wednesday I had the opportunity to leave the agency with Boomie, the development director to a rural area and see the project he is starting up, which is like a home health service, it seems beneficial to this area, although the workers do not have any training in the health field. They are to be at the homes to assist the individuals in an assistance and take the individuals vitals, it is also interesting to know that these workers are suppose to have ten clients, but they are to find their own clients.
Outside of work it has been an adventure to know the city as well as the people who live in the city. There are opposing views here in E.L. about what and where is safe depending on whom you talk to. No matter what, we are always in at 7pm because of safety reasons.
This weekend Katie, Justin and I plan on going to the beach and taking Kayaking lessons!!! I am so excited as this is something I have always wanted to do.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
We have arrived!
Hello from South Africa!
Justin, Katie, and I finally arrived to SA. It has been a long trip. We arrived a day later than expected because we missed one of our connecting flights due to a plane problem from Minneapolis. Stayed at Lesburg, Virginia for the evening and then flew out on Tuesday at 5pm. The flight from Washington to Joe-burg was miserable, mainly because after 6 hours of flying I felt like I was going to pass out. I managed the rest of the flight well though. We arrived in East London around 7:30 pm. Received a ride to the B and B and unpacked and went to bed. This morning we woke up and had breakfast with Uli and Marianna, found out they have two children and Uli works as a civil engineer and working on a project to provide running water for all communities that don't have one in their area.
Marianna also gave us a tour of EL. Katie and I's agencies are with in a block from each other, which is nice so we can walk together. Marianna also showed us where we can shop for clothes, food, Internet cafe, and movie theater. Again a nice walk from the B and B. Marianna also told us the area we are in is relatively safe. There is also a nice pool right across the street from the B and B that we can swim at...costing about 5 rands all day equaling a little under a U.S. dollar.
The weather here is nice. If my calculations are right than it is 84 degrees F here with humidity. Well I need to wrap this up....I will post pictures hopefully with in the next week!
Always,
Amber Joy!
Justin, Katie, and I finally arrived to SA. It has been a long trip. We arrived a day later than expected because we missed one of our connecting flights due to a plane problem from Minneapolis. Stayed at Lesburg, Virginia for the evening and then flew out on Tuesday at 5pm. The flight from Washington to Joe-burg was miserable, mainly because after 6 hours of flying I felt like I was going to pass out. I managed the rest of the flight well though. We arrived in East London around 7:30 pm. Received a ride to the B and B and unpacked and went to bed. This morning we woke up and had breakfast with Uli and Marianna, found out they have two children and Uli works as a civil engineer and working on a project to provide running water for all communities that don't have one in their area.
Marianna also gave us a tour of EL. Katie and I's agencies are with in a block from each other, which is nice so we can walk together. Marianna also showed us where we can shop for clothes, food, Internet cafe, and movie theater. Again a nice walk from the B and B. Marianna also told us the area we are in is relatively safe. There is also a nice pool right across the street from the B and B that we can swim at...costing about 5 rands all day equaling a little under a U.S. dollar.
The weather here is nice. If my calculations are right than it is 84 degrees F here with humidity. Well I need to wrap this up....I will post pictures hopefully with in the next week!
Always,
Amber Joy!
Saturday, January 6, 2007
Farewell
Hello Everybody,
I will be leaving the U.S. in a few days and am thrilled to begin my new adventure. I wanted to tell everyone thank you for supporting me in my decision or "trying" to support me :P . I will be posting blogs for sure once a week and will also have access to my email as well if you prefer to contact me by that source. Have a wonderful new year and take care.
Always,
Amber
I will be leaving the U.S. in a few days and am thrilled to begin my new adventure. I wanted to tell everyone thank you for supporting me in my decision or "trying" to support me :P . I will be posting blogs for sure once a week and will also have access to my email as well if you prefer to contact me by that source. Have a wonderful new year and take care.
Always,
Amber
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