Two weeks in Zambia

After two full weeks in Africa we are coming home. As we were debriefing last night I was thinking that it feels like we have been gone for much longer. I think this is because we experienced a lot in those two weeks; as we began to share stories and recount people that left a mark on our heart a few of us wondered where we will begin to share what we have experienced.

The second week there was our camp week. This is the camp that we worked hard to plan prior to going, brought the supplies and expected about 30 kids to arrive. Our theme for thr camp was "light" and some very talented people on the team created lessons, activities and songs for this topic. We taught kids how to "let their light shine" through science, drama, sports, crafts and songs. The kids that came were from Kalende, the community that we visited the week prior, the same community that is supported by Westside Kings. We were excited to start because we knew that some of the kids we got to know the previous week would be at camp and we couldn't wait to see their faces when they arrived at the farm where we were hosting. Keep in mind (as we continually did) that these kids have not experienced camp like this before and that many of these kids have never left Kalende before. Life would be different for them during camp: more meals in a day, constant opportunity for play, no responsibility to gather water or tend to their house, and a team of bright eyed adults tremendously excited each morning to greet them by name. Here are some highlights:

1. Running behind their bus as it pulled into the farm on the first day as they ran after ours each time we drove into their community
2. Showing activities and lessons to the children's Care Workers that could be implemented when they return to the community after camp.
3. Night time activities, my favourite being making paper lanterns and walking through the field with them.

On the morning the kids left we met them around their "cabins" (converted barn stalls) and we shared the same face; as incredible as the week was, it was very hard to watch them leave.

After camp and some more goodbyes from long-term Hands at Work volunteers we started our debrief adventure. Our very good friend Sal took us to the bus station to board our 13 our bus ride to Livingstone. We arrived very ready to get off that bus. We stayed in fancy tents at the Waterfront resort. For the next two days we explored Victoria Falls, went on a morning safari as well as well as in evening sunset boat safari. Here are some highlights:



1. Getting awestruck by the majesty of the falls and soaking wet from its misty power
2. Seeing so many (giraffes, elephants, hippos, crocs, birds, buffalo, warthogs oh my!) and knowing that we are on their true territory, watching a snippit their life.
3. Sitting down with my team and reflecting together on the weeks past.











Just about to board the first of two long flights! Johannesburg to London, full day layover in London so we can go into the city, then London to Calgary arriving Wednesday night.

Thanks for all your love and support,
Love from far away