Hello All!
10 of us arrived this morning at JFK
Rahul landed before us in India.
The West-coasters are on their flight shortly (if not already).
Neil is soon to board his flight to Korea
The Hotchkiss Gang (Elizabeth, Lancy, Bean & Mr. B) are in the northwest corner.
Nan and Charlotte were met by their fan clubs
Mrs. F is hanging out in NYC
We are all safe and sound!
Hotchkiss in Zambia 2009 is complete!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
JoBurg... baby :-)
We have landed safely in South Africa and are awaiting our 7:00pm boarding time for our long flight to NYC-JFK!
This is the penultimate post.
I will post again one last time when I return to Hotchkiss!
Looking forward to seeing Family & Friends SOON,
Mr. B
for the Hotchkiss in Zambia Trip
This is the penultimate post.
I will post again one last time when I return to Hotchkiss!
Looking forward to seeing Family & Friends SOON,
Mr. B
for the Hotchkiss in Zambia Trip
SIGN OFFS
Lancy
This trip of firsts has flown by. As I write this in the breakfast room of our hotel, I can remember our first morning in Zambia, eating in this same room, unsure of how this journey would play out. To say it went completely smoothly would be untrue. There were bumps along the way, tiffs, long car rides, sleepless nights, intense culture shock. Ultimately, though, this trip has been one of the best experiences of my life. Learning and experiencing a culture so different from our own made me realize how much I appreciate my life, but also how extravagant it can be. The Zambian people embraced us with open arms, and all of us came away with new friends. From teaching at Ibex and Leopard’s to seeing giraffes and zebras to having tea on Livingston Island, this trip has been unforgettable. I am excited, however, to go home to friends and family (and bed) that I have missed these last few weeks.
Lancy
Nan
I have had a wonderful time here in Africa! I am so glad that I came! Now after 3 weeks however, I am ready to go home and be with my family.
Charlotte
I learned a lot in Zambia. I learned that I live a privileged lifestyle and not to take advantage of it. Most of the trip was a lot of fun, which was great! Victoria Falls was a highlight! I really enjoyed learning the culture of Zambia and realizing how nice the people are. I am definitely looking forward to relaxing at home.
Elizabeth:
Africa was amazing. The trip of culture, experience, and fun, was terrific. Although some aspects were hard, I have had a wonderful time. The people here embraced us, and are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. The trip was one of the best I have been on.
Alexandra Bolhack
Our short time in Zambia flew by very quickly. While I was here, I learned how privileged my life is compared to many lives here. I was also able to see some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen in my entire life. The animals I got to see up close and Victoria Falls will never fade in my memory. I hope to one day visit Zambia again.
Alexandra Bentley
Zambia has been sooo amazing. I can’t believe we have already spent three weeks here! We have done so much in this short time and have been able to see so many new creatures that I never thought I would see. I even got soaked by Victoria Falls!! That is a once in a lifetime experience. I was so happy to meet all these nice and exciting people. I can’t believe we’re going home! I hope to return to Zambia someday. I had such an amazing experience.
Neil You
It was a special experience. Africa was really different from what I have expected. I realized that there are a lot of people who are starving in Africa and they need some help. Apart from that, Africa had amazing scenery like Victoria Falls and mountains and I took many pictures of it. However, I am sad that I could not take any pictures of lions. Zambia was great and I hope I come to Africa again.
Bean
This was the experience of a lifetime, and a lot of fun. We all learned a lot about Zambia and the culture, while helping out as much as we could in the community. We had a blast especially in Livingstone at the end; I loved seeing all those wild animals for the first time. There were alot of firsts on this trip, good ones and bad ones, but altogether I am very greatful and glad that I came. Hopefully I will get to return. Now we're off to the 18 hour flight!
This trip of firsts has flown by. As I write this in the breakfast room of our hotel, I can remember our first morning in Zambia, eating in this same room, unsure of how this journey would play out. To say it went completely smoothly would be untrue. There were bumps along the way, tiffs, long car rides, sleepless nights, intense culture shock. Ultimately, though, this trip has been one of the best experiences of my life. Learning and experiencing a culture so different from our own made me realize how much I appreciate my life, but also how extravagant it can be. The Zambian people embraced us with open arms, and all of us came away with new friends. From teaching at Ibex and Leopard’s to seeing giraffes and zebras to having tea on Livingston Island, this trip has been unforgettable. I am excited, however, to go home to friends and family (and bed) that I have missed these last few weeks.
Lancy
Nan
I have had a wonderful time here in Africa! I am so glad that I came! Now after 3 weeks however, I am ready to go home and be with my family.
Charlotte
I learned a lot in Zambia. I learned that I live a privileged lifestyle and not to take advantage of it. Most of the trip was a lot of fun, which was great! Victoria Falls was a highlight! I really enjoyed learning the culture of Zambia and realizing how nice the people are. I am definitely looking forward to relaxing at home.
Elizabeth:
Africa was amazing. The trip of culture, experience, and fun, was terrific. Although some aspects were hard, I have had a wonderful time. The people here embraced us, and are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. The trip was one of the best I have been on.
Alexandra Bolhack
Our short time in Zambia flew by very quickly. While I was here, I learned how privileged my life is compared to many lives here. I was also able to see some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen in my entire life. The animals I got to see up close and Victoria Falls will never fade in my memory. I hope to one day visit Zambia again.
Alexandra Bentley
Zambia has been sooo amazing. I can’t believe we have already spent three weeks here! We have done so much in this short time and have been able to see so many new creatures that I never thought I would see. I even got soaked by Victoria Falls!! That is a once in a lifetime experience. I was so happy to meet all these nice and exciting people. I can’t believe we’re going home! I hope to return to Zambia someday. I had such an amazing experience.
Neil You
It was a special experience. Africa was really different from what I have expected. I realized that there are a lot of people who are starving in Africa and they need some help. Apart from that, Africa had amazing scenery like Victoria Falls and mountains and I took many pictures of it. However, I am sad that I could not take any pictures of lions. Zambia was great and I hope I come to Africa again.
Bean
This was the experience of a lifetime, and a lot of fun. We all learned a lot about Zambia and the culture, while helping out as much as we could in the community. We had a blast especially in Livingstone at the end; I loved seeing all those wild animals for the first time. There were alot of firsts on this trip, good ones and bad ones, but altogether I am very greatful and glad that I came. Hopefully I will get to return. Now we're off to the 18 hour flight!
Sign-Off's - Mr. B & Mrs. F
Mr. B
Hello and goodbye. This has been a truly wonderful experience. It is astounding how much I have learned/experienced even in the moments of our trip that were not organized. Lusaka was intense. Our work, while noble, did not seem to scratch the surface of what we could accomplish in this burgeoning metropolis. Highlights for me were getting to know Tommy, a Williams grad who is spending a year working with Grassroots Soccer in Lusaka, and walking through the streets of Lusaka and into the market to visit the street kids. As was typical with both Tommy and our walk there was more to take in than I could physically experience (Tommy and I were also a bit distracted as we were watching the US be defeated by Brazil). Our “travel” section of the trip highlighted for me the great privilege I enjoy daily. I was humbled by our posh accommodation and embarrassed that I lived in such luxury while others around me, indeed those who make the country operate, did not. It is good to have these moments of clarity and I am grateful that we experienced the tourism industry if only that it provided a great counterpoint to the first portion of our trip. The natural beauty (VicFalls, Zambezi, Flora, Fauna) of Zambia would take many blog posts to even poorly capture, so I will not attempt. I only say that it has been awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
Mr. B SIGNING OFF!
Mrs. Flemma
I cannot believe that we are flying home today. In some ways, it feels as though we have been here for a long time, but in others, it feels like we have barely been able to unpack. There is so much to look back upon. My favorite memories of the trip as a whole would be: teaching with Rahul, Alex and Alex at Ibex Hill School, the late night dance party in the girls dorm at Chalo, my dear roommate- Isabel- at Chalo who shared her room and heart with me, EVERYTHING about being at Kayila Lodge (including seeing our first wildlife!), horse back riding with giraffe and zebras, and experiencing high tea on Livingstone Island, which was an experience of a life time. Memories are flooding back in as I type this brief summary…there is so much more to recount. It has been a wonderful experience getting to know this group of Hotchkiss students. While I will miss spending time with them, I have to admit that I am ready to see my own family again in a day! Great memories- thank you! Diana Flemma
Hello and goodbye. This has been a truly wonderful experience. It is astounding how much I have learned/experienced even in the moments of our trip that were not organized. Lusaka was intense. Our work, while noble, did not seem to scratch the surface of what we could accomplish in this burgeoning metropolis. Highlights for me were getting to know Tommy, a Williams grad who is spending a year working with Grassroots Soccer in Lusaka, and walking through the streets of Lusaka and into the market to visit the street kids. As was typical with both Tommy and our walk there was more to take in than I could physically experience (Tommy and I were also a bit distracted as we were watching the US be defeated by Brazil). Our “travel” section of the trip highlighted for me the great privilege I enjoy daily. I was humbled by our posh accommodation and embarrassed that I lived in such luxury while others around me, indeed those who make the country operate, did not. It is good to have these moments of clarity and I am grateful that we experienced the tourism industry if only that it provided a great counterpoint to the first portion of our trip. The natural beauty (VicFalls, Zambezi, Flora, Fauna) of Zambia would take many blog posts to even poorly capture, so I will not attempt. I only say that it has been awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
Mr. B SIGNING OFF!
Mrs. Flemma
I cannot believe that we are flying home today. In some ways, it feels as though we have been here for a long time, but in others, it feels like we have barely been able to unpack. There is so much to look back upon. My favorite memories of the trip as a whole would be: teaching with Rahul, Alex and Alex at Ibex Hill School, the late night dance party in the girls dorm at Chalo, my dear roommate- Isabel- at Chalo who shared her room and heart with me, EVERYTHING about being at Kayila Lodge (including seeing our first wildlife!), horse back riding with giraffe and zebras, and experiencing high tea on Livingstone Island, which was an experience of a life time. Memories are flooding back in as I type this brief summary…there is so much more to recount. It has been a wonderful experience getting to know this group of Hotchkiss students. While I will miss spending time with them, I have to admit that I am ready to see my own family again in a day! Great memories- thank you! Diana Flemma
Monday, July 6, 2009
Day 18
Today...we drove. We were in the car for 8 hours as we left Livingston and drove back to Lusaka from where we will take our flight out tomorrow.
I've had a great time on this trip. Livingstone and the Lower Zambezi were amazing, and the kids at Chalo, Ibex Hill and Leopards Hill were unforgettable. I didn't really know any of the Hotchkiss kids before I came on this trip (except Neil) and I'm really glad I got to know them better as well.
We are all going to go to bed and wake up fresh for our flight tomorrow.
-Rahul
I've had a great time on this trip. Livingstone and the Lower Zambezi were amazing, and the kids at Chalo, Ibex Hill and Leopards Hill were unforgettable. I didn't really know any of the Hotchkiss kids before I came on this trip (except Neil) and I'm really glad I got to know them better as well.
We are all going to go to bed and wake up fresh for our flight tomorrow.
-Rahul
Day 17 – Alexandra Bolhack
During the night, Bean and I slept in the same adventure tent at around 3 in the morning she threw up, but it did not get on anything of value so we were all thankful. She is much better today after some rest!
Once the morning came, we all took a horseback safari. Although we woke up very early, we all got to see giraffe and zebras up close! In total there were about seven zebras and three giraffe, one of which was only 5 months old! After the horseback safari we all collected for lunch and headed back to Victoria Falls. There, we went to Knife’s point and all got drench from the spray of the falls. Although we were soaked, we got to see the falls up close.
As soon as we dried off, we all piled into the van and drove by boat to Livingstone Island to have high tea. While there, we all got the chance to stand and sit inches away from the edge of the falls. After we got a tour of the island, we were able to have some tea and snacks. Seeing the falls this close was an experience of a lifetime.
Tomorrow we start our long journey home and we all can not wait to see you!!!
Once the morning came, we all took a horseback safari. Although we woke up very early, we all got to see giraffe and zebras up close! In total there were about seven zebras and three giraffe, one of which was only 5 months old! After the horseback safari we all collected for lunch and headed back to Victoria Falls. There, we went to Knife’s point and all got drench from the spray of the falls. Although we were soaked, we got to see the falls up close.
As soon as we dried off, we all piled into the van and drove by boat to Livingstone Island to have high tea. While there, we all got the chance to stand and sit inches away from the edge of the falls. After we got a tour of the island, we were able to have some tea and snacks. Seeing the falls this close was an experience of a lifetime.
Tomorrow we start our long journey home and we all can not wait to see you!!!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Day 16 – Elizabeth
Today was amazing- the perfect remedy for yesterdays long drive. We woke up early and had a large buffet breakfast. We then travelled down the road to the helicopter tours. We split into groups of three and each had a remarkable time flying over Victoria Falls. The guide also pointed out zebra and impala grazing below us. Following this, we drove to a bridge, downstream to the falls. This was picturesque, and we able to cross into Zimbabwe briefly. The group walked down to the “boiling point”, a scenic site overlooking the Zambezi, where the hike down involved wading in water and climbing over rocks, but it was worth the effort. We returned to the waterfront lodge for lunch and then Ms. Flemma took the group to an elephant reserve, while Mr. Babcock went on a sunset cruise. The elephants were terrific. Each us were paired into two and rode on the backs of the rescued elephants with a guide. Bean, our leader Christopher, and I rode on a Marley, a 25-year-old male. We passed tamed lions and rode along the river- it was beautiful. Each of these elephants was orphaned and now stays on the property, free to roam around at will. Tonight we will stay in platform tents tonight and try to stay warm. Tomorrow we wake up early to horseback ride. Today was awesome- a perfect forth of July, although no fireworks here.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Charlotte - Day 15
Day 15
We woke up bright and early at 5:45 in order to begin our journey to Livingstone. The hippos were right outside the tents. When I awoke, I enjoyed reading my book and watching the sunrise. We hustled in order to leave by 6:30, and finally departed the camp and cruised into the fog. After about 30 minutes of riding, we had to stop because of the thick fog. We sat on the boat shivering, as many of us read and took pictures of the beautiful light. Once the fog cleared, we quickly went to the lodge for breakfast. The breakfast hit the spot! Then we started our ride to Livingstone in our small bus. We enjoyed relaxing and listening to our iPods the entire time. After about 5 hours of travel, we stopped for lunch at our favorite, the super spar!!!! We continued the remainder of our trip on a bumpy road. Finally we saw the lights of Livingstone!!!!
We woke up bright and early at 5:45 in order to begin our journey to Livingstone. The hippos were right outside the tents. When I awoke, I enjoyed reading my book and watching the sunrise. We hustled in order to leave by 6:30, and finally departed the camp and cruised into the fog. After about 30 minutes of riding, we had to stop because of the thick fog. We sat on the boat shivering, as many of us read and took pictures of the beautiful light. Once the fog cleared, we quickly went to the lodge for breakfast. The breakfast hit the spot! Then we started our ride to Livingstone in our small bus. We enjoyed relaxing and listening to our iPods the entire time. After about 5 hours of travel, we stopped for lunch at our favorite, the super spar!!!! We continued the remainder of our trip on a bumpy road. Finally we saw the lights of Livingstone!!!!
Rahul and Elizabeth - Day 14
14
We woke up at the usual time (7 am) and Group Banana (the two of us, Babcock, Bean and Alex Bentley) went for a river cruise while the others went on a Game Walk. The Bananas visited the Conservation Lower Zambia (CLZ) and learned about the various problems (ecological and social) facing the Lower Zambezi Region. On our way back, we saw some really cool stuff and were sad to learn that the other group had had an unsuccessful morning. Then we had some free time, where we played cards/slept/ate. We resumed our day at 3 30 for our last game drive. We saw a bunch of elephants, a dead carcass and a bunch of dwarf mongooses (the smallest carnivore in Africa, so cool). The other group had an elephant charge at them. Bolhack took a video, and she was really excited for the rest of the night, as were we all. Now we are looking forward to a 5 45 start tomorrow and a day of travel.
Peace out,
Word Life,
Rahul and Elizabeth.
We woke up at the usual time (7 am) and Group Banana (the two of us, Babcock, Bean and Alex Bentley) went for a river cruise while the others went on a Game Walk. The Bananas visited the Conservation Lower Zambia (CLZ) and learned about the various problems (ecological and social) facing the Lower Zambezi Region. On our way back, we saw some really cool stuff and were sad to learn that the other group had had an unsuccessful morning. Then we had some free time, where we played cards/slept/ate. We resumed our day at 3 30 for our last game drive. We saw a bunch of elephants, a dead carcass and a bunch of dwarf mongooses (the smallest carnivore in Africa, so cool). The other group had an elephant charge at them. Bolhack took a video, and she was really excited for the rest of the night, as were we all. Now we are looking forward to a 5 45 start tomorrow and a day of travel.
Peace out,
Word Life,
Rahul and Elizabeth.
Neil and Bean - Day 13
Lower Zambezi River
We woke up at 630 to the sunrise and the sounds of hippos bellowing. We had the best breakfast we’ve had this whole trip. Eggs were nice and bacon was well cooked. They were perfect for delicious morning sandwiches. After the breakfast, we split into two groups and headed toward different destinations; conservation camp and safari. The group that went to the conservation camp learned about problems that today’s society is facing, such as poaching, water pollution and unequally distributed resources. People in the first group felt that they had to work harder to conserve the nature. The boat, however, broke down on our way back to the camp, so they had to walk about 200 yards back to the camp. The other group set out into Safari land by land cruiser, and then started hiking through the terrain. They walked around, pausing to inspect anything interesting, saw some animals, and returned to the car. They then headed up the mountain to see the wonderful view.
Then, when everyone came back to the camp, we had some down time after eating a wonderful lunch. We all went out to the safari to look at some animals. One group saw a herd of zebras and a herd of elephants. The other group, however, didn’t see anything.
We had a wonderful dinner and some birthday cake. We hope to see some ferocious lions.
-Neil and Bean Crane
Rahul and Elizabeth
Lower Zambezi River
We woke up at 630 to the sunrise and the sounds of hippos bellowing. We had the best breakfast we’ve had this whole trip. Eggs were nice and bacon was well cooked. They were perfect for delicious morning sandwiches. After the breakfast, we split into two groups and headed toward different destinations; conservation camp and safari. The group that went to the conservation camp learned about problems that today’s society is facing, such as poaching, water pollution and unequally distributed resources. People in the first group felt that they had to work harder to conserve the nature. The boat, however, broke down on our way back to the camp, so they had to walk about 200 yards back to the camp. The other group set out into Safari land by land cruiser, and then started hiking through the terrain. They walked around, pausing to inspect anything interesting, saw some animals, and returned to the car. They then headed up the mountain to see the wonderful view.
Then, when everyone came back to the camp, we had some down time after eating a wonderful lunch. We all went out to the safari to look at some animals. One group saw a herd of zebras and a herd of elephants. The other group, however, didn’t see anything.
We had a wonderful dinner and some birthday cake. We hope to see some ferocious lions.
-Neil and Bean Crane
Rahul and Elizabeth
Lower Zambezi River
Alex Bentley- Day 12
TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY!! This is the birthday blog. Today we had our final breakfast at Chalo Trust School and said our goodbyes. It was sad to leave our friends behind but exciting to start a new adventure! We got in a “bus” ride for 2 hours and 30 minutes and headed towards the Zambezi River. On the bus ride we saw trucks on the side of the road that tipped over and the bus driver told us that would usually happen three times a day! We also saw our first monkeys in Africa. It was pretty exciting.
When we got to the lower Zambezi, we sat and stared at the gorgeous view before we had delicious sandwiches for lunch. After lunch we settled into the boat for an hour and a half ride to the campsite we are staying at. The boat ride was very enjoyable. We saw many hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and people washing at the river. We were told we wouldn’t get wet on the boat ride, but unfortunately for everyone except Alex Bolhack and me got soaked! It was pretty hilarious.
When we arrived at the camp we were greeted by all of the workers and got a tour of the campsite that we are staying at. It is a very beautiful place! After settling in for an hour, we went on a night safari! We saw elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, and hippos! It was a great experience.
When we returned we had a delicious dinner and party hats! It was a great day and a wonderful birthday ☺.
Thanks for listening!
-Alex Bentley
When we got to the lower Zambezi, we sat and stared at the gorgeous view before we had delicious sandwiches for lunch. After lunch we settled into the boat for an hour and a half ride to the campsite we are staying at. The boat ride was very enjoyable. We saw many hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and people washing at the river. We were told we wouldn’t get wet on the boat ride, but unfortunately for everyone except Alex Bolhack and me got soaked! It was pretty hilarious.
When we arrived at the camp we were greeted by all of the workers and got a tour of the campsite that we are staying at. It is a very beautiful place! After settling in for an hour, we went on a night safari! We saw elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, and hippos! It was a great experience.
When we returned we had a delicious dinner and party hats! It was a great day and a wonderful birthday ☺.
Thanks for listening!
-Alex Bentley
We're back!!
We have made it to Victoria Falls!!
All are accounted for and currently getting fed a VERY late dinner!
I will now post the blogs for the last few days! :-)
-Allen
All are accounted for and currently getting fed a VERY late dinner!
I will now post the blogs for the last few days! :-)
-Allen
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
IMPORTANT *TRANSFER*
Hello Blog followers!
Please NOTE:
We are transferring TODAY to our next destination.
We will probably NOT HAVE INTERNET for some time.
Please know that we are safe and sound and will be posting as soon as we can get internet acess again :-)
Parents you will receive an email from Tom Flemma when we arrive this evening!
Many Thanks and Thanks for following!
-Allen & Diana
Please NOTE:
We are transferring TODAY to our next destination.
We will probably NOT HAVE INTERNET for some time.
Please know that we are safe and sound and will be posting as soon as we can get internet acess again :-)
Parents you will receive an email from Tom Flemma when we arrive this evening!
Many Thanks and Thanks for following!
-Allen & Diana
Rahul & Alex Bolhack - Day 11
TODAY we first went to visit the Ngwelele Basic School, a primary school in Lusaka. Three of the KF students who we taught had studied there in their early years. We split up in groups of 2 and 3 and taught different classes. Alex (Bolhack) and I taught Math to the 7th graders, and although it was very frustrating at times, the kids tried their very best to pay attention and comprehend the material. Overall, I can honestly say that it was a very rewarding experience.
After lunch, we went to the Grass Root Soccer Centre to do an educational activity concerning HIV and AIDS awareness. Everyone participated and it was a lot of fun. We then went to buy some craft supplies (Mr. Babcock bought a walking stick, claiming it was “real silver on both ends”) and then went to arcades to buy some snacks for the next few days.
We had a great time at Chalo and the other two schools, and while we are sad about leaving we are extremely excited about the safari and the rest of the trip.
Peace out –
Rahul (and Alex Bolhack)
Monday, June 29, 2009
Lancy and Alex Bolhack- Day 10
Today, as it was Sunday, breakfast was served later so we were able to sleep in until 8. Soon after breakfast, we all hoped into the bus and picked up about 10 KF students from all three boarding schools. Then, one by one, we visited three homes before going to lunch. All KF students had their own touching story. One girl had been raised by her blind older sister who cared for 7 other children. In the early afternoon, we stopped for a quick lunch, and then headed off to see more families. We met the family of Merilyn, the student Hotchkiss sponsors. She has two sisters and was raised by her grandmother because her mother abandoned the family. Her story was emotional and very sad. Unfortunately, we were not able to visit all the KF families due to the fact that our bus broke down. We were fortunate enough to be able to pass the time in one of the KF student’s homes. Although this was a long, boring, and stressful time, we did get to know the KF students much better, the positive side of an otherwise bad situation. Finally, a new bus came (two and a half hours later) and brought us to the movies. We watched Night At The Museum 2 at the Arcades Mall. This was a great way to de-stress after the long day, and most people enjoyed the movie thoroughly. Afterwards, we hung around Arcades for a while, buying some dinner, and then headed back to Chalo. It was late, so the girls went back to their rooms and soon after went to bed after a long and tiring day.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
a lot of people- day 9
Mr. B:
Today we awoke later! Yay!
After a delayed bus pickup we were off to visit 3 KF students at one of their homes.
We observed their community service project, which is to teach English and math to local children during their term breaks. Because the KF students are in session these lessons have not yet begun but they gathered some of their previous students for a refresher lesson to demonstrate to our group the nature of their service work. It was GREAT to see students giving back to thier communty in such a thoughtful and organized fashion! We took many pics and played the hokey pokey and head, shouldres knees and toes.
I realize that some following the posts do not know what "KF" is...
here is theoir website : www.kucetekelafoundation.org
the day continued...
Nan and Charlotte:
After we headed to the Super Spar (grocery store) and to Subway. When we arived at Manda Hill Mall we were a bit surprized because we do not know the grocery store well. This resulted it in being hard for Mrs. Flemma, Alex Bolhack and Bean to find everything. Every one else headed to Subway to get lunch. We all enjoyed the quick and easy meal.
Next we began our journey to the Crocodile Farm. We travled for 1/2 an hour on one of the bumpiest roads we have ever been on, especially for those of us on the back of the bus!
The first atraction we saw at the Crocodile Farm was the snakes. The Black Mamba, the most poisonous snake in the world was there, but don't worry; we are fine. Next we moved on to the crocodiles! We saw huge crocodiles and little baby ones too.
We then returned to the snake section. Some of us had the interest of holding snakes! First they gave us a little House Snake and a Camelion. Next the brought out the huge Python. Many people enjoyed holding it on their neck. Some of us were very scared but glad in the end that we held it.
The Crocodile Farm was very enjoyable.
Charlotte and Elizabeth:
we returned from the reptile adventure, with expections from the girls to play a soccer match. they dressed in cleats and uniforms, while we tried to pull together a team. mr. babcock ended up playing goalie, and rahul and neil cheered for us. unexpectaly, we won 3-1! we loved this experience.
We ate a quick dinner, and then returned to the dorms to shower. charlotte and elizabeth returned to the main building while the others rested for the students' social hour. We talked and tried to learn to shake our hips (that's their way of dancing) . However, we are still trying to even figure out how their bodies move in that way! By going to social hour, we were able to socialize with not only the girls, but also the boys. In particular, we talked to Chris for a while, a guy who had lived in Texas for a year and hopes to travel back for college next year. Here, eveyone is so open and willing to share. We are both glad we decided to go- it was both a memorable and exciting experience.
alex bentley:
When we got back to the girl's dorms, we expected to play some board games with the girls or go to bed a little early. Luckily, the girls had a different plan for us. At around 8, all of the girls in the entire dorm got together to have a major dance party! Everyone danced and it was very exciting to see how good the other girls are at dancing. The girls stayed up and talked to us for a little after the dance party. It was a blast!
Today we awoke later! Yay!
After a delayed bus pickup we were off to visit 3 KF students at one of their homes.
We observed their community service project, which is to teach English and math to local children during their term breaks. Because the KF students are in session these lessons have not yet begun but they gathered some of their previous students for a refresher lesson to demonstrate to our group the nature of their service work. It was GREAT to see students giving back to thier communty in such a thoughtful and organized fashion! We took many pics and played the hokey pokey and head, shouldres knees and toes.
I realize that some following the posts do not know what "KF" is...
here is theoir website : www.kucetekelafoundation.org
the day continued...
Nan and Charlotte:
After we headed to the Super Spar (grocery store) and to Subway. When we arived at Manda Hill Mall we were a bit surprized because we do not know the grocery store well. This resulted it in being hard for Mrs. Flemma, Alex Bolhack and Bean to find everything. Every one else headed to Subway to get lunch. We all enjoyed the quick and easy meal.
Next we began our journey to the Crocodile Farm. We travled for 1/2 an hour on one of the bumpiest roads we have ever been on, especially for those of us on the back of the bus!
The first atraction we saw at the Crocodile Farm was the snakes. The Black Mamba, the most poisonous snake in the world was there, but don't worry; we are fine. Next we moved on to the crocodiles! We saw huge crocodiles and little baby ones too.
We then returned to the snake section. Some of us had the interest of holding snakes! First they gave us a little House Snake and a Camelion. Next the brought out the huge Python. Many people enjoyed holding it on their neck. Some of us were very scared but glad in the end that we held it.
The Crocodile Farm was very enjoyable.
Charlotte and Elizabeth:
we returned from the reptile adventure, with expections from the girls to play a soccer match. they dressed in cleats and uniforms, while we tried to pull together a team. mr. babcock ended up playing goalie, and rahul and neil cheered for us. unexpectaly, we won 3-1! we loved this experience.
We ate a quick dinner, and then returned to the dorms to shower. charlotte and elizabeth returned to the main building while the others rested for the students' social hour. We talked and tried to learn to shake our hips (that's their way of dancing) . However, we are still trying to even figure out how their bodies move in that way! By going to social hour, we were able to socialize with not only the girls, but also the boys. In particular, we talked to Chris for a while, a guy who had lived in Texas for a year and hopes to travel back for college next year. Here, eveyone is so open and willing to share. We are both glad we decided to go- it was both a memorable and exciting experience.
alex bentley:
When we got back to the girl's dorms, we expected to play some board games with the girls or go to bed a little early. Luckily, the girls had a different plan for us. At around 8, all of the girls in the entire dorm got together to have a major dance party! Everyone danced and it was very exciting to see how good the other girls are at dancing. The girls stayed up and talked to us for a little after the dance party. It was a blast!
(Continuation: Nan, Elizabeth, Charlotte)
We left rhapsody with a satisfied appetite, and headed to our favorite soft serve shop before driving to Leopards Hill School. We arrived and immediately got to work. We planted numerous avocado and mango trees. We also planted a number of beds of spinach and Chinese (which looked like lettuce to us). It was fun gardening, especially because it gave us the opportunity to socialize with the KF kids involved I their agriculture club. Many of us recognized these students from our teaching experiences earlier in the week. It will be interesting to see how the garden has developed an grown by the time Hotchkiss visits again. The school hopes to sustain themselves on this garden. Personally, for Nan and Elizabeth, leopards had been our favorite school, and we were delighted to have been given the chance to reunite with them. Unfortunately this was the last time we would see the kids. We bonded over mud fights and having to replant a lot of the stuff, we had planted minutes before. A few of the kids joked about promising to send us some of the vegetables to America, so we could remember them and see the final results. Although we became quite dirty, and mud covered us, we left happy and with good memories.
We returned to chalo, and unfortunate had no time to shower before dinner, but they continued to embrace us nonetheless. There was the usual power outage which delayed dinner, but the French fries and chicken we were served made up for the brief wait. We returned to our dorms while the students studied, catching up on some rest and taking the much needed showers. We went to bed excited for the sleep in we would get the next morning.
We returned to chalo, and unfortunate had no time to shower before dinner, but they continued to embrace us nonetheless. There was the usual power outage which delayed dinner, but the French fries and chicken we were served made up for the brief wait. We returned to our dorms while the students studied, catching up on some rest and taking the much needed showers. We went to bed excited for the sleep in we would get the next morning.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Flemma’s First Post - Day 8 Part 1
We woke up early this morning to head to the Fountain of Hope Children’s Center, which is an outreach program for street kids who range in age from 7-19. The children at the center were obviously well taken care of. We took a tour of the facility first, visiting classrooms- their schooling ends at grade 7- and seeing their kitchen, library and medical clinic. There was room for about 45 male boarders, but the majority of the program is for street children to come for food, a clean shower, safety and education.
Our group brought a number of games, books, and coloring supplies to donate to the center. We spent some time playing games with the kids- they especially like the game of Twister that we supplied! They taught us some new card games of theirs, and of course, there were pickup games of soccer and basketball. After the games, we went for a tour of the streets with a handful of the workers at the center. They introduced us to a number of street children with whom they have been trying to make connections. This was the most jarring part of our experience, as few of us have interacted with street kids before. Upon our return to the center, we were surprised to hear that the leader of our group, Vasco, had grown up on the streets as well, but was one of Fountain of Hope’s first success stories. Considering it was only half a day, we were remarkably drained from the experience. We are currently recharging at “Rhapsody” the local favorite eatery among the Chalo kids, before we head off to do our community service project of planting a garden Leopards Hill Scholl this afternoon. We will surely sleep well this evening!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
The Girls’ Post: Lancy, Charlotte, and Nan- Day 7
Today, Mr Babcock and Mrs Flemma gave us a sleep-in to 7, however, it seemed insufficient due to the activities of the girls in our dorms in the early morning. We hopped bus half and hour late, at 8:30, and headed to Ibex and Leopard’s Hill to drop off books for them and to say good-bye. Afterwards, we went to learn traditional dances. For us, it was very interesting to see (and participate in) the dances from different regions. We thoroughly enjoyed the booty-shaking. A highlight of this experience was going to the gorgeous bathrooms (this is a subjective term; they were much prettier than our current facilities) at the conference center we danced at. Then we headed to lunch at Arcades. We appreciated the relaxing, carb-free meal. After our lunch, we hung around the mall for a bit, getting an ice cream, then we headed back to Chalo to participate in their sports day.
Missing family, but having so much fun,
Lancy, Charlotte, and Nan
The Boy’s Post: Neil, Mr. B, & Rahul - Day 6
Neil:
Mrs. Flemma, Bean, Charlotte and I went to Leopards Hill School, where we taught BADFAT and theater. The classes started really early. I taught seniors and tenth grade how to analyze documents and I was little bit nervous at first because I am a senior too. Once the class started, however, I taught them about BADFAT as much as I know and I think that they understood most of them. Also, we made them do some exercises using documents and I think most of the students understood the material even though they didn’t really like it.
Mr. B:
Today the team of Babcock, Downs, Rich & Phillip went on the road again. Yesterday we were at Leopards Hill School; today we traveled to Ibex Hill School. Upon arrival we went into the 5th grade class as a team that I had taught theatre games on Monday. They were energetic and willing as ever! In the middle of the class I got called out and sent to the 9th grade English classes because their teacher was out with a toothache. Some quick thinking ended in the class writing short character descriptions and then crafting dialogues between the two created characters. In the first English class we did not get completely through the exercise but when the girls joined the second things went much quicker and all the students were able to have their works read aloud by a combination of ‘kiss students and Ibex students! There was extra time at the end and the girls had a nice “no adults” chat with the class for the last 15 min… this actually degenerated into a photo taking session with every 8th grade boy taking a picture with Elizabeth. WE next went into the 11th grade. What followed in the 3-hour marathon class was Geography of the US, Regionalism, Dialects, “what is America really like?”, the sex talk, the drugs talk, and finally a rousing discussion about gay marriage… it was a VERY long class but we emerged with much to think about! We wrapped the day in the Primary. I went back to my 5th graders and did a simplified version of the lecture I taught to the grade 8’s in the morning. After a long day a teaching we boarded the bus for grassroots soccer. At grassroots soccer we played modified handball. I was THE ONLY white person to SCORE A GOAL!!!! It was an awesome day.
Rahul:
Alex Bolhack, Alex Bentley and I stayed in Chalo today while the rest of the group went to the other two schools. We planned to teach as many classes about relationships and gender issues at the school. I was pretty disappointed when we were only allowed to teach two classes (the first period and the last period) Between that time we just walked around campus and took some photos. After that we had lunch and went to pick up the other guys. Together we all went to the Grass Root Soccer Centre. I was really looking forward to playing some soccer, but the activities we did were fun too. Then we had some dinner (French fries and chicken) and are now just enjoying some free time in our rooms… again with no power!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Nan & Elizabeth Day 5
As we write we are being served lunch at leopards hill school. This morning was wonderful, with us teaching from 930 and we will continue after lunch. So far our favorite is the senior class who is open and willing to interact. We were surprised when we arrived and were told we were teaching public speaking, but took this opportunity with pleasure.
We are now sitting in the local internet café…
Today was a great day in which we both thoroughly enjoyed. It was so much fun to personally get to know the students. We are excited to see them later this week as well. The children were open to asking us multiple questions about almost every aspect of our life, an although we were there for lessons, we spent a good portion of the afternoon discussing Hotchkiss/ American culture.
Today was worthwhile and exhilarating, and as an ice-cream shop is next door, we will head off there next.
Alex & Alex Day 4
HELLO ALL!!
Today was our first day experiencing school in Zambia. We split up into three different groups and sat in on classes and Chalo Trust School where we are staying, Leopards Hill, and Ibex Hill. Alex Bentley, Alex Bolhack, and Rahul all visited Leopards Hill to experience first hand, the type of material kids are learning in Zambian schools! After sitting for 3 hours in the staff room, we got to experience and 80 minute 9th grade biology class. It was just as exciting as any biology class… Afterwards, we went to a Religion class, which was very interesting. The teacher talked about suffering and pain and students would share past experiences with deaths in the family. It was a very touching and sad moment in the class. Afterwards, we hopped off to lunch with the rest of the students, and got to eat some nshima, a traditional food… the chicken was good though! After lunch, we visited a 10th grade IT class where the students were learning how to make charts on Microsoft Excel.
After a day of school, the three of us joined the rest of the Hotchkiss students at Ibex Hills where we sat in on a social club. The students were talking about relationships, and when the teacher asked if anyone would volunteer to share information about their relationship, Alex Bolhack was very brave and told the class information about her and her boyfriend. The class was pleasantly surprised!
Once we returned to Chalo, we had dinner and talked to some of the Zambian students. We very much enjoyed sharing our different cultures. After a very long day of fun, we crawled into our mosquito nets and hit the hay!
With love,
Alex Bentley and Alex Bolhack
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Elizabeth & Bean's Day 3
After a brief power outage, we ate breakfast at 830. once again the bus was late, but this allowed us to catch up on missed journals and pick up some playing cards for the orphanage. by 1030 we were on our way to the local mall to exchange our money for kwache(1$ for 5000). we then spent a fair amount of time at the Kabwata cultural center. we used our bargaining skills to buy small village made trinkets. each vender had their crafts set up in traditional wooden/straw huts. they were desperate even for the few dollars, and a few of us traded basic supplies such as tissues and chapstick. bean gave up a box of cookies, and elizabeth traded a pair of clean old socks.
by now it was lunch and we ate burgers at a local fastfood chain. we sighted zambia's most famous heavy weight boxer, while the kf co-founder, florence, went to buy fruit for the orphans at Mother Theresa Orphange.
we then headed of in the bus. we arrived to singing children of all ages. most of kids have lost their parents to hiv/ aids. the complex was nicer than expected with several well kept building, and full vegtable and flower gardens. there was a cute soccer pitch and playground out front. we visted the baby ward first, where each infant was eager for any connection. they were all dressed in donated clothes, sitting peacefully in matching metal cribs. We held numerous babies; many of the babies cried as we set them down. as we passed they would reach up their hands. we were surpreised by the high amount of flys. we continued our tour to the terminallt ill wards. here we visted both the female and male sections, in which they both the healthy sung and danced for us. we returned to the cildren were the groups split between playing with the toddlers while some of us tended to the babies. all of this was a touching experince.
We are now off after a short stop at the internet cafe back to Chalo Trust For dinner... more soon
Elizabeth & Bean
by now it was lunch and we ate burgers at a local fastfood chain. we sighted zambia's most famous heavy weight boxer, while the kf co-founder, florence, went to buy fruit for the orphans at Mother Theresa Orphange.
we then headed of in the bus. we arrived to singing children of all ages. most of kids have lost their parents to hiv/ aids. the complex was nicer than expected with several well kept building, and full vegtable and flower gardens. there was a cute soccer pitch and playground out front. we visted the baby ward first, where each infant was eager for any connection. they were all dressed in donated clothes, sitting peacefully in matching metal cribs. We held numerous babies; many of the babies cried as we set them down. as we passed they would reach up their hands. we were surpreised by the high amount of flys. we continued our tour to the terminallt ill wards. here we visted both the female and male sections, in which they both the healthy sung and danced for us. we returned to the cildren were the groups split between playing with the toddlers while some of us tended to the babies. all of this was a touching experince.
We are now off after a short stop at the internet cafe back to Chalo Trust For dinner... more soon
Elizabeth & Bean
Charlotte & Nan's Day 2
June 20, 2009
Today we planned to leave the hotel at 10am. But due to Zambian time (Island Time) we left at 10:30am. We drove for about 30 minutes to the Chalo Trust School. We arrived and met the Chileshe’s, the heads of school. After a short meeting we headed to our dorms, called hostels, to unpack. Due to a fire last year, the girls dorm that was on the center of campus, burnt down. This resulted in a change of housing for the students. The boys hostel is down the street, a 2-3 minute walk. The new hostel for the girls is down the street as well, a 5 minute walk. The girls hostel is very nice because it is the Chileshe’s old house.
At the hostels we began to unpack and set up our beds. We were provided sheets, blankets, pillows, and mosquito nets. After we were settled, we headed to back to the main campus for the Cultural Ceremony. We first were served lunch, today the meal was traditional. One of the big hits were the caterpillars! Rahul, Alex Bolhack, Lancy, Mrs. Flemma, Charlotte, Nan all ate full Caterpillars! After lunch and a small amount of socializing, the Cultural Ceremony began. The Chalo Trust School chorus sang the American National Anthem, the Zambian National Anthem and the Chalo School song. There was also traditional dancing by the students. There was a skit by two boys from Chalo. There were also speeches by representatives from the 3 schools and from the KF Foundation. Afterword, we preformed Fair Hotchkiss. Our singing did not match the skill of the fabulous singers from the other schools. The Cultural Ceremony was great!
Afterword the boys returned to their hostel. The girls went on the bus to go to the grocery store, students from the Leopards Hill School joined us on the bus. It was great to spend time talking to them. At the grocery store we bought water, toilet paper, and snacks. We headed back to the school for dinner. When we arrived we learned that we had missed dinner.
The cook at the Chalo School nicely made us dinner. Afterword we headed back to our hostels. We enjoyed talking to the girls that night before bed. It was a great first day at the school.
Today we planned to leave the hotel at 10am. But due to Zambian time (Island Time) we left at 10:30am. We drove for about 30 minutes to the Chalo Trust School. We arrived and met the Chileshe’s, the heads of school. After a short meeting we headed to our dorms, called hostels, to unpack. Due to a fire last year, the girls dorm that was on the center of campus, burnt down. This resulted in a change of housing for the students. The boys hostel is down the street, a 2-3 minute walk. The new hostel for the girls is down the street as well, a 5 minute walk. The girls hostel is very nice because it is the Chileshe’s old house.
At the hostels we began to unpack and set up our beds. We were provided sheets, blankets, pillows, and mosquito nets. After we were settled, we headed to back to the main campus for the Cultural Ceremony. We first were served lunch, today the meal was traditional. One of the big hits were the caterpillars! Rahul, Alex Bolhack, Lancy, Mrs. Flemma, Charlotte, Nan all ate full Caterpillars! After lunch and a small amount of socializing, the Cultural Ceremony began. The Chalo Trust School chorus sang the American National Anthem, the Zambian National Anthem and the Chalo School song. There was also traditional dancing by the students. There was a skit by two boys from Chalo. There were also speeches by representatives from the 3 schools and from the KF Foundation. Afterword, we preformed Fair Hotchkiss. Our singing did not match the skill of the fabulous singers from the other schools. The Cultural Ceremony was great!
Afterword the boys returned to their hostel. The girls went on the bus to go to the grocery store, students from the Leopards Hill School joined us on the bus. It was great to spend time talking to them. At the grocery store we bought water, toilet paper, and snacks. We headed back to the school for dinner. When we arrived we learned that we had missed dinner.
The cook at the Chalo School nicely made us dinner. Afterword we headed back to our hostels. We enjoyed talking to the girls that night before bed. It was a great first day at the school.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Lancy Breakfast Day 2
This morning we met for a wonderful breakfast at 9. We are currently waiting for the Chalo School to come pick us up, so that we can go to their campus. Today is Culture Day, meaning that the students will performs traditional songs and dances for us. Hopefully we can pull something together that represents Hotchkiss culture before we embarrass ourselves in front of the Chalo students...
So far, we have had no major setbacks and everyone has been safe about food and water. It was refreshing to get a good night's sleep after the long, sleepless time on the plane.
Lancy
So far, we have had no major setbacks and everyone has been safe about food and water. It was refreshing to get a good night's sleep after the long, sleepless time on the plane.
Lancy
Friday, June 19, 2009
Rahul's first day
Today, after a total of 17.5 hours in the air, we finally reached Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. To most of our surprise, we were interviewed by a local Lusaka television station. They asked us what we were looking to get out of our Zambian experience. After that we were driven to our hotel which was 30 minutes away from the airport. After checking in, we had some time to relax and freshen up after all the traveling. Then we went for a short walk around the area. The weather was pleasant all day and got a little chilly in the night. Finally, we all got back to the hotel and had a really nice dinner. I tried to go with some traditional African food, so I ate a burger with fries.
Now we're all looking forward to some sleep and an active day tomorrow.
-Rahul
Now we're all looking forward to some sleep and an active day tomorrow.
-Rahul
The first one :-)
This is the First Blog Post for this blog.
We will post as frequently as possible....
when we have internet access!
We will post as frequently as possible....
when we have internet access!
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