This is an extension of yesterday’s entry (and some other ones)-
So Cross, Abeseriwa, and Gerry work for FOX one of the best Radio station in Ghana- here’s the link if you want to try to listen to it- I will when I get home! (Maybe you will hear Andi and my jingle--- it will be in Twi so you won’t know—lol)
http://www.listenghana.com
On the drive back I had a lot of thoughts going through my head. Exactly 7 weeks left. We are about 2/3 done with this trip- I wrote a few days ago about having no regrets- I have some trips planned. I love this country, I love the people but traveling around and lying on beaches does not let you have that type of contact to learn about the culture. When in Kumasi I meet Muhammad a tour guide from Mali- he specializes in ethnic awareness travel in West Africa- he is in the middle of a 33 day trip with a couple from Florida- he was so knowledgeable of 6 countries the people and customs! I want to be able to bring someone to Ghana and show them the way of the life- but right now I don’t feel like I would be able to do that- so that is my focus for the next few weeks. Learn the ways of life. One of my friends Prince said he would make me Banku (you eat it with soup it’s a dough like substance) but I don’t want him to just make it- I WANT TO LEARN HOW TO MAKE IT! I want to learn how to make other foods as well. Sitting in the car I felt like I was in the woods in Maine- at night everything looks the same. I got home sick, I was missing things of life and people. Bittersweet is what saying good-bye to Ghana will be. I love it here- but I love things about home and I miss some!
Some people here are pissed that we have to learn Twi and didn’t want to take the test or class. They are now being threatened that they will not get their transcript and they are pissed- it was part of our contract. It has helped a lot- I am not good at it- but I can pick up on a few things- yes I am laughed at a lot when I use it! But it works- when people see that you want to become a part of their culture that will accept you and welcome you for trying. They laugh because we have such American accents but not really making fun of us. I rather be laughed at then not be. I am trying- I want to continue to learn as much as I can. I want to come back to Ghana and be able to walk up to some one in a market and converse not just say hello…
Some people have asked me if it smells here- yes it does- am I use to it- maybe, because I really don’t notice anymore? The water has been out at my hostel since Thursday. The hotel we stayed at water went out- I have not taken a real shower since Thursday. This morning I took a bucket shower- and it felt great- but its weird I didn’t feel gross before that. You wash up everyday yes- but there’s a big difference especially sitting in traffic, getting in a tropical storm, sitting in a stadium and such. How did I not feel gross? The water is still off- the shower I can do without but toilets are another matter! At the stadium I was dreading the toilets- but amazingly they were somewhat clean- they were clean for Ghana standards- they were clean for AMERICAN STADIUM standards- how could that be? Maybe that’s what our extra ticket price gave us?? So that was nice!!! Most people know I like things that are clean and orderly- the orderly is not gone in me but the clean I am trying. I want things to be clean but I am being able to get use to things not being clean….like the hotel we stayed in this week- really not that clean…but I survived! I will go home and not know what to do with HOT water or regular soap?? (As of Tuesday night we have WATER!!!!)
I take things for granted I know this. I try not to because I know there are people without the things to live day to day. When people ask me to give them something here- it’s a simple no or daabi but it breaks my heart sometimes- most of the time its kids just being pains but other times it is people trying to get by but their daily lives can not provide. What is clean water? Is something in India I came to realize here they have pure water everywhere in sachets for 5pesews about .02USD I will buy someone a sachet if they ask me nicely and look like they need one- but if they are like “buy me” no- “would you please buy me water” I would- Ghana is a communal land- if each brother and sister helps each other prosperity will ensue. If you are eating on a trotro or bus you offer “you’re invited” to everyone- I forget sometimes and my neighbors remind me… but in the states we are so concerned about me, me, me or I, I, I but do not care about we, we, we no wonder we let our brothers and sisters starve while we waste food. I feel guilty here when I don’t finish my food- there is someone on the corner starving. I know there is- some people laugh when they have leftovers and are like I will send it to Africa. But think about this- you can buy a bag of rice through organizations and feed a family for less then that dinner cost you- and feed them for days on end. So why do we waste our money on things that we don’t need. Do we need that new bag, shirt, electronic? I know I am guilty of this- and I am not saying we can’t have nice things- but moderation on everything is key to life sustaining on this earth. If we do a little the world will echo back. Its like a pebble into water effect…
Play analysis and drumming this morning.
Tuesday-
I went to my Play Analysis- It ended up being canceled after about 30 minutes we left. Leaving I ran into Prince- he walked me back to the hostel and I found out about the 300 level student's night at the theatre- most of them were there all night- so most didn't show up for our morning class and I have a feeling that is why it was canceled. They 'slept' there, slaughter some goats to eat food- you would think they were in a village! Most of them were not happy campers because they had to be back at 11am.... This lecturer wants them to LIVE THEATRE!! I thought I did it sometimes- but this is a whole new concept....
So I went to see the show tonight that the 300 Theatre in African Societies class was presenting- it was all in Twi which I knew- I had lined up a translator. Waakyei from our class but he got stuck in traffic (that always happens) so Johnny, Andi and I watched a show with basically a little history from Johnny who is in the class- but it was fun- I know about 3/4 of the cast which is nice when watching! So I am back it late- Im tired... going to bed...
Midge
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Ghana at night is a beautiful sight! And Corruption Works for US!
Lots to catch up on- sorry if this is VERY LONG!
Wednesday Jess and I went to the orphanage- we meet a lot of new people- Becky- Another volunteer and two sponsors from the UK. Coming home there was some of the worst Accra traffic and fullness at the trotro stations so we sucked it up and got a Taxi and its still took 1hr40min for a usually 30min ride- ahhh.
Thursday I skipped my first class! I skipped drumming. We aren’t learning anything new and I wasn’t really in the mood in the morning to review. I went to the bookstore and got 4 novels for about 7USD- almost new- this is fabulous! Had theatre management and then came back and people wanted to go to Dracula. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go- but it was a very very good show- They like to have audience interaction- but all of the girls were sooo scared of these masked men! Oh well. Worth the about 0.50USD!!!
Friday morning Andi and I headed to Kumasi (hopefully to get tickets early for the game.) We left the university around 11am. We took a trotro to circle (a hub)- from there we could either take a bus or a trotro- we decided to have fun and take the trip of from anywhere 4.5 hours to 9hrs by tro. The tro we got on was almost full so we left by noon which was great. The first half of the trip the West African Transport (Highway) N6 is in major disrepair so your rear hurts. We got to Nkawkaw and everyone got off- and about 20 minutes before this we had hit a storm. So I leaned over and was like Driver are you going to Kumasi and he was like oh I will transfer you- so not even two minutes later another tro came- the Oburonis got wet and we were on our way with a very nice tro full of people wanted to now what we were doing- except for the rain that followed us the whole way we had a pretty uneventful day! We got to the hotel around 6 which was great- grabbed some dinner at the hotel restaurant and went to bed early. There were another 7 ISEPers up there but they did their own thing and we did. Tickets were not going on sale until Sunday morning- but no one knew what time we heard between 7am and 11am! We also meet a tour guide from Mali-
So Saturday Andi and I didn’t want to shop so we decided to go to the Kumasi Fort and Arm Forces Museum. With some help of the front desk at the hotel we got their easily. It was a very nice tour- crazy the amount of wars the Gold Coast/Ghana was in and the things that have been collected. Some of the pieces like the original Ghana flag are here. I was glad Andi agreed to do this. Our tour guide was very good and it lasted about an hour and a half. On the way out we walked around a little and meet a street vendor- not really trying to sell us anything! We talked with him for about an hour and a half. He invited us to a music concert but we weren’t sure on our plans for the evening so we got his number- but it ended up not working and our plans came through so we didn’t go. After walking around a little more we headed back to the hotel. There were at least another 11 people coming up this morning (it ended up being another 15.) So because transportation is all over the place here- I thought maybe we should see if we can get a big tro for all or most of us. So I asked the guy who helped us in the morning if he knew any tro drivers that might charter to Accra for us- He knew someone not with a tro but who manages part of a rental company. Cross is his name! And he is great!!!! He came over we talked about first only 15 of us- but then there was really 24 of us- so long story short we got people to agree to pay 12.50GHC a piece (300 Total- we had to pay Gas both ways because they would be coming back empty- but so worth it)- the bus from Kumasi to Accra alone is 11GHC so it would have been more because when we get to Accra its still far from where we live and it would have been at least after 3am and no tros so we would have had to take Taxis- some people didn’t want to do it at first the bus took us right to Legon. So Andi and I chartered a 28 passenger bus not 24 hours before the game! How I love Ghana. At first you don’t know what is bull here and what is truth but Cross seemed good but we weren’t handing money over to him. So we arranged to go to pay the deposit to the bus company in the morning after we got tickets.
Saturday Night- Andi and I invited Wisdom (Israel’s brother who I have meet in Accra) to go out to dinner. We went to a restaurant a little walk from our hotel and I had the best Chicken Sandwich ever! It is nice to be making more Ghanaian friends and just go out and learn more about the culture and the way of life here. I feel that I have a family of friends here both American and Ghanaian- that I will miss dearly. We were at dinner for almost 3 hours!
Andi and I decided to go early for tickets (fend for yourselves is the game) because no one could tell us anything- we woke at 5am walked over to the stadium we got there and basically it was all of the Oburonis- I think it was a big joke to all of them. We got there they said tickets were going on sale where we were at 7am. Then at about 6:45am they were like not here and the few Ghanaians there ran- we were like whats going on- and someone finally told us we had to go to this other part- but there was like no one there. And at this point we are told tickets arnt going on sale till 9 or was it 11- so we got into lines- but then how corruption pays! We got two tickets in the ‘VIP’ section by bribing a ticket seller with one cedi hours before tickets went on sale. We had great seats with the thanks to Christian a Ghanaian we meet in line- who got us to the ticket guy. They were about 7USD a piece- which is sooo cheep! So we went back to the hotel at 830am to take a nap and then were ready to go pay the deposit. So we called Cross at about 10:45- we got our stuff together checked out of the hotel and waited for him. (Andi was getting very grumpy she knew it and said it and was getting mad at how long it was taking him to get to the hotel- I was trying to stay optimistic). We had been told even though we have tickets we should get there early because of the crowd- so this was cutting into that. So at about 1pm (yup GHANA TIME AGAIN) Cross, Gerry the driver and Abeseriwa picked us up. Cross and these two friends work at the biggest radio station in Kumasi. So we go and pay the deposit at a legit building at the Kumasi Airport with a contract! And then they are like will you make us a jingle? Andi and I are thinking they want us to write one (I jokes only if we get royalties)- but because we had said some things in Twi they wanted to have American with very American Accents to actually record a saying (I am sure if this happens the people will laugh at it!)- and we were pulling into the radio station- they gave us a tour of the station but because another show was being recorded we couldn’t (at this point Andi was pissed but then two seconds later she was laughing and smiling- which I was glad to see and I told her later- and she was like it was fun doing these types of things after we sand the Thong song and some Bob Marley- and danced in the car!). So we meet all of their co-workers and then we went to the rival station so they could drop something off?- we got a picture with our new made friends. We drove through central market to go to the stadium- where they escorted us- when we could have walked but that’s how the men are here to our entrance. We picked up some Ghana gear, lunch and headed in! We were about two hours early but we ate and talked to some people around us. The match started on time and only 1:11min into the game Ghana scored! It was great- but it was the only goal of the whole match so the rest of it was fun to watch- but I wanted some energy! In the section next to us (separated but a big fence was the Benin crowed) they had spirit- were we were sitting was the calm section so nothing to exciting was seen by us- Ghana won the World Cup Qualifier Game! So the game ended Andi and I had the tightest fist formed and some people let us pass nicely but the crowd pushes out. We got out of the stadium (swam the perpendicular way in a huge crowd)- we got back to the hotel and Andi and I had everything we went with! We called Cross- and the bus which was going to leave at 9pm sharp was there around 815pm and we left- ISEP history breaker early. By 835 we were on the road- I was shotty on the bus with a driver who spoke very little English- but it was fun trying to turn on and off the AC when it got cold or when the radio got to load with my little Twi and his little English. But I heard a few “oh s***” from him on big pot holes! We got back to ISH (all the way to our hostel!) by 12:30ish. Record time in comfort. We passed so many police check points and never got stopped which was great. Andi and I felt great getting home- by the time we got home we most likely would have been still in Kumasi if we tried to get a bus or tro back. This was also much safer- people could sleep and not worry about there belongs- paying for connivance is the best- We also gave Cross a little something for his work as facilitator. He also called during the trip to make sure everything was okay and if he needed to translate anything to the driver for us! He is coming to Accra next week or so, so Andi and I might meet up with him and his friends and they want to try to get us to record that jingle still! Lets say though I never want to sit in the front of a car with a working speedometer in Ghana there were times we were doing 110kmh in a 50kmh--- but it’s a back road and there are no road laws here!
The ride home gave me a lot of time to reflect and was just a good trip to see the beauty of Ghana in so many different ways. Ghana is beautiful, the people, the land, and the society. Sitting in the bus- reflections will come with another entry.
Thanks all- Love Midge
Album 9 has the pictures from this past weekend....
Wednesday Jess and I went to the orphanage- we meet a lot of new people- Becky- Another volunteer and two sponsors from the UK. Coming home there was some of the worst Accra traffic and fullness at the trotro stations so we sucked it up and got a Taxi and its still took 1hr40min for a usually 30min ride- ahhh.
Thursday I skipped my first class! I skipped drumming. We aren’t learning anything new and I wasn’t really in the mood in the morning to review. I went to the bookstore and got 4 novels for about 7USD- almost new- this is fabulous! Had theatre management and then came back and people wanted to go to Dracula. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go- but it was a very very good show- They like to have audience interaction- but all of the girls were sooo scared of these masked men! Oh well. Worth the about 0.50USD!!!
Friday morning Andi and I headed to Kumasi (hopefully to get tickets early for the game.) We left the university around 11am. We took a trotro to circle (a hub)- from there we could either take a bus or a trotro- we decided to have fun and take the trip of from anywhere 4.5 hours to 9hrs by tro. The tro we got on was almost full so we left by noon which was great. The first half of the trip the West African Transport (Highway) N6 is in major disrepair so your rear hurts. We got to Nkawkaw and everyone got off- and about 20 minutes before this we had hit a storm. So I leaned over and was like Driver are you going to Kumasi and he was like oh I will transfer you- so not even two minutes later another tro came- the Oburonis got wet and we were on our way with a very nice tro full of people wanted to now what we were doing- except for the rain that followed us the whole way we had a pretty uneventful day! We got to the hotel around 6 which was great- grabbed some dinner at the hotel restaurant and went to bed early. There were another 7 ISEPers up there but they did their own thing and we did. Tickets were not going on sale until Sunday morning- but no one knew what time we heard between 7am and 11am! We also meet a tour guide from Mali-
So Saturday Andi and I didn’t want to shop so we decided to go to the Kumasi Fort and Arm Forces Museum. With some help of the front desk at the hotel we got their easily. It was a very nice tour- crazy the amount of wars the Gold Coast/Ghana was in and the things that have been collected. Some of the pieces like the original Ghana flag are here. I was glad Andi agreed to do this. Our tour guide was very good and it lasted about an hour and a half. On the way out we walked around a little and meet a street vendor- not really trying to sell us anything! We talked with him for about an hour and a half. He invited us to a music concert but we weren’t sure on our plans for the evening so we got his number- but it ended up not working and our plans came through so we didn’t go. After walking around a little more we headed back to the hotel. There were at least another 11 people coming up this morning (it ended up being another 15.) So because transportation is all over the place here- I thought maybe we should see if we can get a big tro for all or most of us. So I asked the guy who helped us in the morning if he knew any tro drivers that might charter to Accra for us- He knew someone not with a tro but who manages part of a rental company. Cross is his name! And he is great!!!! He came over we talked about first only 15 of us- but then there was really 24 of us- so long story short we got people to agree to pay 12.50GHC a piece (300 Total- we had to pay Gas both ways because they would be coming back empty- but so worth it)- the bus from Kumasi to Accra alone is 11GHC so it would have been more because when we get to Accra its still far from where we live and it would have been at least after 3am and no tros so we would have had to take Taxis- some people didn’t want to do it at first the bus took us right to Legon. So Andi and I chartered a 28 passenger bus not 24 hours before the game! How I love Ghana. At first you don’t know what is bull here and what is truth but Cross seemed good but we weren’t handing money over to him. So we arranged to go to pay the deposit to the bus company in the morning after we got tickets.
Saturday Night- Andi and I invited Wisdom (Israel’s brother who I have meet in Accra) to go out to dinner. We went to a restaurant a little walk from our hotel and I had the best Chicken Sandwich ever! It is nice to be making more Ghanaian friends and just go out and learn more about the culture and the way of life here. I feel that I have a family of friends here both American and Ghanaian- that I will miss dearly. We were at dinner for almost 3 hours!
Andi and I decided to go early for tickets (fend for yourselves is the game) because no one could tell us anything- we woke at 5am walked over to the stadium we got there and basically it was all of the Oburonis- I think it was a big joke to all of them. We got there they said tickets were going on sale where we were at 7am. Then at about 6:45am they were like not here and the few Ghanaians there ran- we were like whats going on- and someone finally told us we had to go to this other part- but there was like no one there. And at this point we are told tickets arnt going on sale till 9 or was it 11- so we got into lines- but then how corruption pays! We got two tickets in the ‘VIP’ section by bribing a ticket seller with one cedi hours before tickets went on sale. We had great seats with the thanks to Christian a Ghanaian we meet in line- who got us to the ticket guy. They were about 7USD a piece- which is sooo cheep! So we went back to the hotel at 830am to take a nap and then were ready to go pay the deposit. So we called Cross at about 10:45- we got our stuff together checked out of the hotel and waited for him. (Andi was getting very grumpy she knew it and said it and was getting mad at how long it was taking him to get to the hotel- I was trying to stay optimistic). We had been told even though we have tickets we should get there early because of the crowd- so this was cutting into that. So at about 1pm (yup GHANA TIME AGAIN) Cross, Gerry the driver and Abeseriwa picked us up. Cross and these two friends work at the biggest radio station in Kumasi. So we go and pay the deposit at a legit building at the Kumasi Airport with a contract! And then they are like will you make us a jingle? Andi and I are thinking they want us to write one (I jokes only if we get royalties)- but because we had said some things in Twi they wanted to have American with very American Accents to actually record a saying (I am sure if this happens the people will laugh at it!)- and we were pulling into the radio station- they gave us a tour of the station but because another show was being recorded we couldn’t (at this point Andi was pissed but then two seconds later she was laughing and smiling- which I was glad to see and I told her later- and she was like it was fun doing these types of things after we sand the Thong song and some Bob Marley- and danced in the car!). So we meet all of their co-workers and then we went to the rival station so they could drop something off?- we got a picture with our new made friends. We drove through central market to go to the stadium- where they escorted us- when we could have walked but that’s how the men are here to our entrance. We picked up some Ghana gear, lunch and headed in! We were about two hours early but we ate and talked to some people around us. The match started on time and only 1:11min into the game Ghana scored! It was great- but it was the only goal of the whole match so the rest of it was fun to watch- but I wanted some energy! In the section next to us (separated but a big fence was the Benin crowed) they had spirit- were we were sitting was the calm section so nothing to exciting was seen by us- Ghana won the World Cup Qualifier Game! So the game ended Andi and I had the tightest fist formed and some people let us pass nicely but the crowd pushes out. We got out of the stadium (swam the perpendicular way in a huge crowd)- we got back to the hotel and Andi and I had everything we went with! We called Cross- and the bus which was going to leave at 9pm sharp was there around 815pm and we left- ISEP history breaker early. By 835 we were on the road- I was shotty on the bus with a driver who spoke very little English- but it was fun trying to turn on and off the AC when it got cold or when the radio got to load with my little Twi and his little English. But I heard a few “oh s***” from him on big pot holes! We got back to ISH (all the way to our hostel!) by 12:30ish. Record time in comfort. We passed so many police check points and never got stopped which was great. Andi and I felt great getting home- by the time we got home we most likely would have been still in Kumasi if we tried to get a bus or tro back. This was also much safer- people could sleep and not worry about there belongs- paying for connivance is the best- We also gave Cross a little something for his work as facilitator. He also called during the trip to make sure everything was okay and if he needed to translate anything to the driver for us! He is coming to Accra next week or so, so Andi and I might meet up with him and his friends and they want to try to get us to record that jingle still! Lets say though I never want to sit in the front of a car with a working speedometer in Ghana there were times we were doing 110kmh in a 50kmh--- but it’s a back road and there are no road laws here!
The ride home gave me a lot of time to reflect and was just a good trip to see the beauty of Ghana in so many different ways. Ghana is beautiful, the people, the land, and the society. Sitting in the bus- reflections will come with another entry.
Thanks all- Love Midge
Album 9 has the pictures from this past weekend....
Friday, March 27, 2009
The weekend-
I don't feel like writing about the end of my week right now- so when I get back from Kumasi and seeing my first football game! I will update my little hearts content- most likely Monday morning your time.... Wish me luck! I am very excited! (We don't have water- so I can't shower- err- what ever by the end of the day of traveling I will gross anyway-)
Midge
Midge
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Living Life without Regret
So today- I have been to my two classes and am done with the day- and its only 11am! well lets say its a great feeling.
Class review- so the professor started our lecture about "Edufa" a play based in Ghana by a Ghanaian playwrite with "We are going to review this play for everyone but especially for our American student- because all of you read this at level 100." Well then- a special lecture for me! lol- luckily everyone else was taking noted- I understood the play but a few things defiantly got clarified for me. He is a really nice professor- all of mine are/were. My drum professor still like to make fun of me...lol two rhythms don't work for me- I can get one not two!
Plans for this weekend- I am going to Kumasi to go to the Ghana Black Stars against Benin in a world cup qualifying match. Lets say it should be crazy. Which is what brings me to the topic of the day- Living life without regret. At first I was nervous because of the safety of futball games- but I am in Africa where futball is life. So how can I be here for months and not go to a game. I will not let the opportunity pass me by while I am here. So I will go with wide open eyes and the littlest amount of money and enjoy the game! There are a lot of us going up- but I am going to stay with a smaller group- I think its easier and safer to stay with a small group because you are able to travel easier then if you are in a herd of people-
I do not want to take a day that I am here for granted- I want to live each day to its fullest. I haven't traveled in a few weeks and I am excited to go to this!
Thats it-
Class review- so the professor started our lecture about "Edufa" a play based in Ghana by a Ghanaian playwrite with "We are going to review this play for everyone but especially for our American student- because all of you read this at level 100." Well then- a special lecture for me! lol- luckily everyone else was taking noted- I understood the play but a few things defiantly got clarified for me. He is a really nice professor- all of mine are/were. My drum professor still like to make fun of me...lol two rhythms don't work for me- I can get one not two!
Plans for this weekend- I am going to Kumasi to go to the Ghana Black Stars against Benin in a world cup qualifying match. Lets say it should be crazy. Which is what brings me to the topic of the day- Living life without regret. At first I was nervous because of the safety of futball games- but I am in Africa where futball is life. So how can I be here for months and not go to a game. I will not let the opportunity pass me by while I am here. So I will go with wide open eyes and the littlest amount of money and enjoy the game! There are a lot of us going up- but I am going to stay with a smaller group- I think its easier and safer to stay with a small group because you are able to travel easier then if you are in a herd of people-
I do not want to take a day that I am here for granted- I want to live each day to its fullest. I haven't traveled in a few weeks and I am excited to go to this!
Thats it-
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Finding Faith
Finding Faith: So for those who know and don't know for about the last 6 years faith and religion is something that I have been searching for not knowing what I want. For about the last two years with my parents I have been attending the Universal Unitarian Church in Auburn- not often but I think this is as close as I will find to my personal beliefs. People have been asking me about my attendance at service here so this is why I will talk about it today- a Sunday, and on a Sunday I haven't attended service.
I don't know what it is- religion is a big part of everyone's life in Ghana- you can ride a trotro and get a sermon- you can be told by people on the street that by you not attending church on a Sunday you are doing wrong- you can walk around campus and see prayer circles- you can walk around on a Sunday and choice within the campus gates 7 different faiths to practice- you can sit before class and have a fellow student preach to you. What is it that makes Ghanaians faithful followers everyday of their life. We were told robbers pray before their crimes here- why then do they do the crime? We get wake up calls from people on mega phones in the field behind the hostel- waking us to the glory. There are not many people in the states that have this devotion to faith and when we see them most of us think they are crazy. So how is it that a whole country can have the alliance to their faith in that way.
The devotion to faith is amazing to me. Since I have challenged what I believe, what I think, and what I practice I am trying to find out what it is that I want in my faith while here. I have attended the interdenominational church a few times here because I feel it is where I best belong. It is still Christian based- I want to attend a Catholic Mass at some point- most likely later in the semester- just to see- for one I haven't been to a Catholic Mass since Freshmen year of high school.
Faith and spirituality is something that i have thought about a lot in my alone time here. Good morals is most important for our society to work but I don't think if a person decides they don't want to practice a certain religion they are wrong. When I try to explain to people here what the Universal Unitarian (which is the closest to my personal believes that I can find at this point) it is hard- social justice is hard to explain when some men still believe women should be in the home, that homosexuality is against the law here... how do you explain social justice? There are differences on what is against social norms and what is practiced by some. There are people here who accept everyone- but like in the States you have people who do not- so its hard to explain this. At Independence Day- they prayed with both Christian and Muslim prayers- acceptance of all- Social Justice? In a way- but they can't love alike while thinking differently.
So think about what you believe- not what your church says- think about what you want. Just for a minute- explore what you want! Take some time you might realize what you have been practicing you want to strengthen of something that you don't want at all. Explore the other options out there.
Another topic were I just write and see what comes out!
I don't know what it is- religion is a big part of everyone's life in Ghana- you can ride a trotro and get a sermon- you can be told by people on the street that by you not attending church on a Sunday you are doing wrong- you can walk around campus and see prayer circles- you can walk around on a Sunday and choice within the campus gates 7 different faiths to practice- you can sit before class and have a fellow student preach to you. What is it that makes Ghanaians faithful followers everyday of their life. We were told robbers pray before their crimes here- why then do they do the crime? We get wake up calls from people on mega phones in the field behind the hostel- waking us to the glory. There are not many people in the states that have this devotion to faith and when we see them most of us think they are crazy. So how is it that a whole country can have the alliance to their faith in that way.
The devotion to faith is amazing to me. Since I have challenged what I believe, what I think, and what I practice I am trying to find out what it is that I want in my faith while here. I have attended the interdenominational church a few times here because I feel it is where I best belong. It is still Christian based- I want to attend a Catholic Mass at some point- most likely later in the semester- just to see- for one I haven't been to a Catholic Mass since Freshmen year of high school.
Faith and spirituality is something that i have thought about a lot in my alone time here. Good morals is most important for our society to work but I don't think if a person decides they don't want to practice a certain religion they are wrong. When I try to explain to people here what the Universal Unitarian (which is the closest to my personal believes that I can find at this point) it is hard- social justice is hard to explain when some men still believe women should be in the home, that homosexuality is against the law here... how do you explain social justice? There are differences on what is against social norms and what is practiced by some. There are people here who accept everyone- but like in the States you have people who do not- so its hard to explain this. At Independence Day- they prayed with both Christian and Muslim prayers- acceptance of all- Social Justice? In a way- but they can't love alike while thinking differently.
So think about what you believe- not what your church says- think about what you want. Just for a minute- explore what you want! Take some time you might realize what you have been practicing you want to strengthen of something that you don't want at all. Explore the other options out there.
Another topic were I just write and see what comes out!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Tears can not be stopped
Hello-
There are so many lessons that I have learned here- some I can write about some I really can't expressed into words.
Thursday I had my day of classes including going to Circle- (Center of town) to pick up my package. I am glad that Prince and Israel brought me- it is a crazy place! I never have the need to go there so it was my first time- INSANE! It took a while but I got it. I got both Papas and Moms package which was nice. I have about 60 pens to bring to the orphanage! (At this point no packages should be sent- flat mail is okay-) Theatre Management consisted today of a lot of songs being sung in Twi and English! More entertainment for my buck I guess. Theatre Management ended with an argument about when our extra meeting should be- I dont care...
Friday- I hung around the hostel- finished a book. I have had so much time to read- I need to go get some more. We are exchanging within the group- but those are slim picking now. Israel came over and we watched Beauty and the Beast. After seeing the show last week he wanted to see the movie- I hadnt seen it in years- wow!
We then went to see Sarafina- it is a South Africa (pop?) musical about the Apartheid. The book I just finished was about the Apartheid so it felt appropriate. So usually a lot of International students go to the shows- but last night I was the only white Oburoni there- sitting there watching a powerful script (not the best executed but) about the power that the Black Africans (mostly students and teachers- something I want to research more on.) had against the whites was something that I will never forget- the empowerment of Africans, the things that my ancestors did, the things that will never be forgotten, the things that SHOULD NOT be forgotten- history tends to repeat itself and we need to stop that from happening. There were a few times that I was on the verge of tears- the actions, the songs, the torches, the music all moved me in a way that I really can not say. African folk songs were joined in by the audience- in their local languages, in English, and some humming. I wish every person who has every thought about Africans both here and the USA do not have a pride that we only wish we could- have sat there and felt the vibration and the soul that filled the ampli-theatre.
Side note: Theatre safety Midge- real fire was used many many times- very close to the audience, the actors, the set! AHHHH. Stage Combat- they really hit, kick, punch, slap the people!!! AHHH!!!!
I am around this weekend- plans changed- major lesson: be flexible, be patient, enjoy yourself- something I need to take back with me....
Thats all.
Midge
There are so many lessons that I have learned here- some I can write about some I really can't expressed into words.
Thursday I had my day of classes including going to Circle- (Center of town) to pick up my package. I am glad that Prince and Israel brought me- it is a crazy place! I never have the need to go there so it was my first time- INSANE! It took a while but I got it. I got both Papas and Moms package which was nice. I have about 60 pens to bring to the orphanage! (At this point no packages should be sent- flat mail is okay-) Theatre Management consisted today of a lot of songs being sung in Twi and English! More entertainment for my buck I guess. Theatre Management ended with an argument about when our extra meeting should be- I dont care...
Friday- I hung around the hostel- finished a book. I have had so much time to read- I need to go get some more. We are exchanging within the group- but those are slim picking now. Israel came over and we watched Beauty and the Beast. After seeing the show last week he wanted to see the movie- I hadnt seen it in years- wow!
We then went to see Sarafina- it is a South Africa (pop?) musical about the Apartheid. The book I just finished was about the Apartheid so it felt appropriate. So usually a lot of International students go to the shows- but last night I was the only white Oburoni there- sitting there watching a powerful script (not the best executed but) about the power that the Black Africans (mostly students and teachers- something I want to research more on.) had against the whites was something that I will never forget- the empowerment of Africans, the things that my ancestors did, the things that will never be forgotten, the things that SHOULD NOT be forgotten- history tends to repeat itself and we need to stop that from happening. There were a few times that I was on the verge of tears- the actions, the songs, the torches, the music all moved me in a way that I really can not say. African folk songs were joined in by the audience- in their local languages, in English, and some humming. I wish every person who has every thought about Africans both here and the USA do not have a pride that we only wish we could- have sat there and felt the vibration and the soul that filled the ampli-theatre.
Side note: Theatre safety Midge- real fire was used many many times- very close to the audience, the actors, the set! AHHHH. Stage Combat- they really hit, kick, punch, slap the people!!! AHHH!!!!
I am around this weekend- plans changed- major lesson: be flexible, be patient, enjoy yourself- something I need to take back with me....
Thats all.
Midge
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Happy Birthday Dad!
Happy Birthday Dad- the video will be coming!
Photo Album 8 is also started- more soon!
Photo Album 8 is also started- more soon!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Update!
So I need to come clean about something for the next story to make true sense to people. I am currently being courted by a Ghanaian (in American terms- Dating) His name is Israel, he is a 3rd year theatre management major. We have known each other since week 2 or 3 here and the rest is sorta history. Well we have two classes together and this morning in Play Analysis the lecturer said a phrase in the local language of Twi (which I am studying but did not understand) and he said one of you can translate it for the Oburoni (foreigner) The whole class (of about 300 students from front and back) started yelling (in a friendly way) that Israel should translate it for his mpena (girlfriend). We think that Theatre/Drama departments are bad at home (Sorry guys)- here is a department with over 1200 students and they all know (It might help a little that I am an Oburoni). I know it must be exciting for them and all- but some days I just wished I was in the states where no one cares who is dating who (haha yea right?) and what race they are (that part is true). I am able to look at this with a whole set of eyes that most Americans will not be able to ever experience. I am thankful for that in so many ways. What doesn't break us only makes us stronger, right? I do not wish going back to the states really- and I do not wish it to be different. It is something that if right will be right- I came to Ghana looking for a challenge. A challenge physically, emotionally and socially that I feel I have sailed into comfortably which I am truly thankful for. This is not the first time that things have been said about us- but I am getting use to it- I think it’s more of a way of acknowledging the relationship then chastising it- if that makes sense! The way that most of the students act here you would think we were in high school sometimes. Like when at theatre shows and the people on stage kiss- you would think they have never seen people on TV or Movies kissing. I think it is pretty funny because they do watch it all the time. I think the big difference is that it is live and not tapped.
Today in drumming we had another crazy- it is a daily occurrence now. (We are ready to take our final- but we can't yet- it would be great if we could because then we don't have to deal with the crazies) What's in the air? This older man came and he started preaching at first our prof wouldn't have of it...but I don't know the guy just started dancing he told us we are children of god and we must play and dance his praises. He then asked one of the girls for her watch and she said no- he slightly slapped her for saying no- its not uncommon to see that happen here- even when you do not know the person and the prof was like get away- he danced some more and then left with no force.
Classes are so much fun here! A day does not go by without some type of excitement or entertainment. The people who have decided not to go to classes here I think are missing out on the fun! I mean with all the stories I have of class wouldn't you want to go?? We are also here to learn and it’s disappointing that there is not the yearning to learn from the group that I thought I would see. There is a lot to learn both in and out of the classes but it’s all apart of the process.
So Thursday- its official I am going to get my package. Israel and my friend Prince will be taking me to the post office. They told me girls should not go to that area of town alone (and being white sorta sticks you out as well). It is nice of them to offer. I like the whole escorting thing-- its something we don't get much at home!
I have sorta forgotten about all of the silly holidays in the USA that we have. St. Patty's day is today- I might go out with the group tonight just because I have been out to any of the night life here- If there is no cover I will go. I just don't feel like spending a ton of money when I don't drink.
So Happy St. Patty’s day-
Midge
Today in drumming we had another crazy- it is a daily occurrence now. (We are ready to take our final- but we can't yet- it would be great if we could because then we don't have to deal with the crazies) What's in the air? This older man came and he started preaching at first our prof wouldn't have of it...but I don't know the guy just started dancing he told us we are children of god and we must play and dance his praises. He then asked one of the girls for her watch and she said no- he slightly slapped her for saying no- its not uncommon to see that happen here- even when you do not know the person and the prof was like get away- he danced some more and then left with no force.
Classes are so much fun here! A day does not go by without some type of excitement or entertainment. The people who have decided not to go to classes here I think are missing out on the fun! I mean with all the stories I have of class wouldn't you want to go?? We are also here to learn and it’s disappointing that there is not the yearning to learn from the group that I thought I would see. There is a lot to learn both in and out of the classes but it’s all apart of the process.
So Thursday- its official I am going to get my package. Israel and my friend Prince will be taking me to the post office. They told me girls should not go to that area of town alone (and being white sorta sticks you out as well). It is nice of them to offer. I like the whole escorting thing-- its something we don't get much at home!
I have sorta forgotten about all of the silly holidays in the USA that we have. St. Patty's day is today- I might go out with the group tonight just because I have been out to any of the night life here- If there is no cover I will go. I just don't feel like spending a ton of money when I don't drink.
So Happy St. Patty’s day-
Midge
Sunday, March 15, 2009
A Day In The Life
So today like the early post said I was going to the Orphanage. So its Sunday so we got to do things other then homework. The older children had chores but not all day. So a reading, dancing, watching TV, futball and learning how to really do my laundry and a cooking lesson until they all settled down for Lunch. After lunch I took Felix for a walk for a little surprise- we were going to get Ice Cream- not really but its what they have here. Its called Fan Milk (Cream frozen in a sachet type bag- three flavours- yogo (strawberry) Chocolate and Vanilla- I get all the names screwed up so I wont even try. So we ventured and found a seller- after explaining with not much luck but then a little smile from Felix and he came to the orphanage. The children could not have been happier! It was great. I was going around to all the kids and little Kofi who is 2 decided to squirt me with his Fan Milk- it was so cute- gross- but cute! So after a little clean up I headed home. (I was planning on leaving soon- he didnt make me want to leave.) The children had the camera again- they took about 175 pictures... I got it down to about 50- they take a lot that arn't really of anything but these are great memories compared if I take them! Thats all- goodnight
Midge
Midge
Its Sunday Morning
So I am heading to the orphanage in a little while to spend the afternoon with the kids. It should be good- because we will actually be able to play and not just do studies but some of them want to work on their studies- so I will do what ever they want!
I will be heading to the post office early in the morning to pick up a package from Mom and Dad- that should not have been stopped but was- so hopefully taxes won't be too much on it. I am not good at the bribing thing so I think I will just pay what ever they ask for- Some of the group has been bribing but I just don't think I can do it... I guess that is a good thing.
Last night I stayed in and watched Wall-E it is such a cute movie- we can buy disks here that have like 5-10 movies for 5cedi, about 4USD. Its nice to have movies/tv seasons to watch. Some of them work and some of them don't but they exchange the ones that don't so its all good.
Thats it for today-
Midge
I will be heading to the post office early in the morning to pick up a package from Mom and Dad- that should not have been stopped but was- so hopefully taxes won't be too much on it. I am not good at the bribing thing so I think I will just pay what ever they ask for- Some of the group has been bribing but I just don't think I can do it... I guess that is a good thing.
Last night I stayed in and watched Wall-E it is such a cute movie- we can buy disks here that have like 5-10 movies for 5cedi, about 4USD. Its nice to have movies/tv seasons to watch. Some of them work and some of them don't but they exchange the ones that don't so its all good.
Thats it for today-
Midge
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The weekend is here!
What really is a weekend in Ghana? Basically my week days are Tuesday and Thursday- and if you consider going to the orphanage work (I don't) then Wednesday. But the technically weekend that people refer to is here. Many of my friends are traveling- I decided to opt out so I can go to the orphanage and relax. Last night even with a little rain it did not deter me from going to see Beauty and the Beast with Jessica, Jess, Ryan T, Melissa, Lorin, and Israel. There are a few canopies but basically the theatre is open- it didn't down pour but it did rain for about the first hour.... The show was the junior version- which I think they could have done the whole one if they had -a bigger stage and more rehearsal time. The show was very enjoyable they did have a few sound problems most likely rain related, and also not the best equipment. For some people like Israel who have never seen the movie the stage version is confusing (especially with some costumes that were not very clear on what they were). But I helped him out and a few of the other randoms around me to know what was going on. Ghanaian theatre is very different for one- the audience is very vocal. When Belle and the Beast were kissing you would have thought we were at a futball game. Yelling, cheering, standing up, cattle calls from some guys. It is very interesting because at home we would never witness that. People yell out we can't "see your voice" meaning hear when someone is not projecting enough- seems like a common theme all around- something they should work on- Almost every show has had that problem. But all in all it was fun.
I came back and unexpectedly Jane the seamstress was here- my top still needs some alterations but the two skirts are done! I can't decided if I want to get a dress made- I just don't think I will wear it- So IDK.
Today is a lay low kind of day. Just gonna read, maybe go buy a DVD and watch some movies if I can find one that works. Tomorrow I haven't fully decided on plans- It is communion week at the interdenominational church which means it most likely will be longer, I might go to the Catholic Church but it is lent- and lent masses at home are torture- I don't know if I could sit through one here (After Easter I will go I think). I should be leaving at 12ish for the Orphanage so if the interdenominational is very long I won't be able to get on the road when I want to- so I think i will skip church this week. (Long explanation for nothing- I know.)
Thats it for now- Leave some loving.
Midge
I came back and unexpectedly Jane the seamstress was here- my top still needs some alterations but the two skirts are done! I can't decided if I want to get a dress made- I just don't think I will wear it- So IDK.
Today is a lay low kind of day. Just gonna read, maybe go buy a DVD and watch some movies if I can find one that works. Tomorrow I haven't fully decided on plans- It is communion week at the interdenominational church which means it most likely will be longer, I might go to the Catholic Church but it is lent- and lent masses at home are torture- I don't know if I could sit through one here (After Easter I will go I think). I should be leaving at 12ish for the Orphanage so if the interdenominational is very long I won't be able to get on the road when I want to- so I think i will skip church this week. (Long explanation for nothing- I know.)
Thats it for now- Leave some loving.
Midge
Thursday, March 12, 2009
the week is almost over?
Hello All,
Yesterday was a great day. The trotro rides were uneventful! which is always very nice. We arrived at the orphanage and the children soon arrived and we set off on arithmetic, algebra, telling time, and long division. It was all very fun. I took many photos but then the children (with the lanyard around their necks) took my camera to take some photos. Some of them were very nice but some of them were- well they are kids... There are more photos in Ghana 7 of the visit and the ISEP dinner that we had last night.
Off to drumming and Theatre Management!
Midge
Yesterday was a great day. The trotro rides were uneventful! which is always very nice. We arrived at the orphanage and the children soon arrived and we set off on arithmetic, algebra, telling time, and long division. It was all very fun. I took many photos but then the children (with the lanyard around their necks) took my camera to take some photos. Some of them were very nice but some of them were- well they are kids... There are more photos in Ghana 7 of the visit and the ISEP dinner that we had last night.
Off to drumming and Theatre Management!
Midge
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Quick!!!
Hello-
Class and such today- nothing to exciting. Hopefully the kids will have their smiles ready for me tomorrow so you can all see their faces!!!
Midge
Class and such today- nothing to exciting. Hopefully the kids will have their smiles ready for me tomorrow so you can all see their faces!!!
Midge
Monday, March 9, 2009
Cold in Africa??
Hello!
So the weekend- Saturday Andi, Ryan, Johnny, Dehlia, Richmond (Ghanaian), myself, and Israel went to a jazz and praise concert. It was more Jazz then praise but that's fine. They had a very nice rig for the set-up. It started at 5pm (and basically started on time) they had so many artists that they had to cut some of them short because there was a show that was suppose to start at 7:30 and they went all the way to 7:30 and they had to strike the show and set up the theatre's show furniture. It was a very good show- watch out Lyman Jazz! Pictures will be up soon (If album 7 is there then that means they are up). Hopefully the show started close to on time. Some of us were going to stay but decided not to. That night we headed back and relaxed.
Sunday I went to church only 2hours 15minutes this time. I came back here started reading my homework took an 1hour 30min nap, finished reading- got dinner very early which was good because the next things winds turned and a storm came. It lasted for awhile. Everything has cooled down and I am sorry to say I am chilled. It is 76 out and I am saying this- oh what my body does to me! I am sure tomorrow I will complain how hot it is because its suppose to get to 100 with humidity this week!
This week is mellow- Beauty and the Beast is this weekend- and I will get to see it- which I didn't think I would be able to- which is exciting. I know like 5-7 people in it from my classes. I am also want to go to the W.E.B. du Blois center this week- I think- I am going to the orphanage Wednesday with plenty of batteries!!! Just a little of this and that. The weekends are getting short in number.
Thank you for all of the comments about the smelly elephants! I am sure they are smelly but it would still have been great. Instead I might change a baby's diaper just so I don't miss out completely!
<3 Midge
So the weekend- Saturday Andi, Ryan, Johnny, Dehlia, Richmond (Ghanaian), myself, and Israel went to a jazz and praise concert. It was more Jazz then praise but that's fine. They had a very nice rig for the set-up. It started at 5pm (and basically started on time) they had so many artists that they had to cut some of them short because there was a show that was suppose to start at 7:30 and they went all the way to 7:30 and they had to strike the show and set up the theatre's show furniture. It was a very good show- watch out Lyman Jazz! Pictures will be up soon (If album 7 is there then that means they are up). Hopefully the show started close to on time. Some of us were going to stay but decided not to. That night we headed back and relaxed.
Sunday I went to church only 2hours 15minutes this time. I came back here started reading my homework took an 1hour 30min nap, finished reading- got dinner very early which was good because the next things winds turned and a storm came. It lasted for awhile. Everything has cooled down and I am sorry to say I am chilled. It is 76 out and I am saying this- oh what my body does to me! I am sure tomorrow I will complain how hot it is because its suppose to get to 100 with humidity this week!
This week is mellow- Beauty and the Beast is this weekend- and I will get to see it- which I didn't think I would be able to- which is exciting. I know like 5-7 people in it from my classes. I am also want to go to the W.E.B. du Blois center this week- I think- I am going to the orphanage Wednesday with plenty of batteries!!! Just a little of this and that. The weekends are getting short in number.
Thank you for all of the comments about the smelly elephants! I am sure they are smelly but it would still have been great. Instead I might change a baby's diaper just so I don't miss out completely!
<3 Midge
Friday, March 6, 2009
Some sad news-
So because of time constants in both the number of weekends and the time that it takes to get to Mole National Park- I will be unable to see Elephants in the Wild. I am okay with this- Its does make me a little upset but there are so many things to do- and for a 20 hour trip there and then back and the increase on prices because that's how things go- and our ISEP trip is not running- I have opted out on this trip to do the things that will culturally awaken me. The End- Midge
It was Independence Day!!!!
So today was Ghana's 52nd Birthday- i think we should all sing Happy Birthday!!!!! Ready 1, 2, 3! Well a group of us ventured out at 6am this morning to make it to Independence Square for the start of the parade. We arrived after breakfast on the run, trotro ride, and walk over around 8am- and they started at around 8:30 for a 9am start- early----I don't get it! The marching of military, schools, and other groups started. The photos are up- Album 6 so have a look. After the groups marched in to a military band the ministry and President of Ghana arrived. Great excitement ensued within the grounds as they made their way around. The flame was then lit- canons went off, planes flew over- the president spoke and the end. It was all very slow but over in no time. It was a lot of fun! Very crowed- and as we were leaving a group of Canadians who are here at Legon for 2months on nursing rotations asked us if we wanted to ride back with them- we were screaming and yelling the whole way back- a bus of Oburonis yelling Happy Independence Day- the trotro drives were honking at us and having a good old time. We were back at the hostel by 11:15- all this excitement and now I am back relaxing for a two day show tomorrow. We were going to see a concert downtown this afternoon but everyone backed out on me... but its okay- there will be more!
Also a few photos from the orphanage are up- my batteries dies on Wed when I was there- I will bring spares for next week!
Thats all- leave some loving!
Midge
Also a few photos from the orphanage are up- my batteries dies on Wed when I was there- I will bring spares for next week!
Thats all- leave some loving!
Midge
Independence Day
Its Independence Day- Gone to do what the Ghanaians do! Dance, Sing, and Have a good old time!!!! Photos and update will come when I recover from a 6am-???? day!!!!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
TroTro Rule Number 1- You are not single: engaged or married is best!
So today was very interesting on the tros- basically all 4 trips has a story.
Chapter One- Legon to 37th Station.
Jessica and I headed to Teshie Orphanage to help out. The first tro was a little difficult to get but we finally boarded one. A stop after ours a man got on and started praying, singing, clapping in the name of Jesus. Not sure his message it was half English/ half Twi. We arrived at 37 and headed to the Teshie Tros.
Chapter Two- 37th to Lescala.
We were the last two for the tro from the station which is nice- because if you are the first one you sweat until its full! The man next to me ask me questions about why I was here and what we were doing- it was nice. He has very broken English so it was a little difficult but it was a nice trip.
Chapter Three- Lescala to 37th.
Jess and I with a shake of a hand (yup its that easy) get a tro to 37th. We entered and we were the only females. The man next to me in brief- asked me to take him to the states and marry him. His friends also asked- so 3 in one day....not to bad- just joking. Its not unusual but 3 in one trip really???
Chapter Four- 37th to Legon:
We waited in line for not too long and got a tro that decided to take the off road route which was fine until we got to a spot where one of the lovely Ghanaian police men was to stop us and make us turn around. So instead of saving like 20 minutes in traffic we added another 30. Bribe I guess didn't work this time. But we are back and un harmed....
But the orphanage was great today. Kofi who is two finally got close to me and was sad when I left today he sat and played with me the whole time- he better not be gone next week. My twins- yes MY TWINS! are gone- they went to a home, their home, idk- some type of home. I took a few photos but my batteries died and i didnt have spares so I will bring it back again and again- I will upload soon- after Friday and Saturdays activities! We are going to the beach April 10th- please all start praying now that we have a nice day with no rain!!!!!
Thats my day- Oh the joys of African Life- I will miss them but some things I will be glad not to deal with any more....
Midge
Chapter One- Legon to 37th Station.
Jessica and I headed to Teshie Orphanage to help out. The first tro was a little difficult to get but we finally boarded one. A stop after ours a man got on and started praying, singing, clapping in the name of Jesus. Not sure his message it was half English/ half Twi. We arrived at 37 and headed to the Teshie Tros.
Chapter Two- 37th to Lescala.
We were the last two for the tro from the station which is nice- because if you are the first one you sweat until its full! The man next to me ask me questions about why I was here and what we were doing- it was nice. He has very broken English so it was a little difficult but it was a nice trip.
Chapter Three- Lescala to 37th.
Jess and I with a shake of a hand (yup its that easy) get a tro to 37th. We entered and we were the only females. The man next to me in brief- asked me to take him to the states and marry him. His friends also asked- so 3 in one day....not to bad- just joking. Its not unusual but 3 in one trip really???
Chapter Four- 37th to Legon:
We waited in line for not too long and got a tro that decided to take the off road route which was fine until we got to a spot where one of the lovely Ghanaian police men was to stop us and make us turn around. So instead of saving like 20 minutes in traffic we added another 30. Bribe I guess didn't work this time. But we are back and un harmed....
But the orphanage was great today. Kofi who is two finally got close to me and was sad when I left today he sat and played with me the whole time- he better not be gone next week. My twins- yes MY TWINS! are gone- they went to a home, their home, idk- some type of home. I took a few photos but my batteries died and i didnt have spares so I will bring it back again and again- I will upload soon- after Friday and Saturdays activities! We are going to the beach April 10th- please all start praying now that we have a nice day with no rain!!!!!
Thats my day- Oh the joys of African Life- I will miss them but some things I will be glad not to deal with any more....
Midge
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Hmm- oh the things that make you laugh!
A Story Part 1: (Cute Chapter)
The other afternoon/evening Andi and I went to the night market to get some food. There is a central part that splits the market in two and there were a bunch of kids- they usually say hello and thats about it. But two of the boys said and I quote "I Love you Baby, I love you" At first both of us were thinking they were talking to the little Ghanaian girls with them- but then they started following us- and kept saying it. They were like 7-9 years old so it was cute and all of the ladies in the market were laughing. Kids say the darnedest things?
A Story Part 2: (Not so cute chapter)
Today in drumming- location drum circle at front of campus- near a very busy street!
We were about 10 minutes into class when this very weird man walked over- he had a jean jacket on with no shirt on and jeans that were unbuttoned-where we could clearly see his red boxers. So for about 10 minutes he watched and our professor said that he needs to leave. He didn't and our prof was nice about it- so we actually got to the point were we were playing the song through and he started dancing- this time the professor asked him in Twi to leave and the guy said something back (not sure)... and then he lite something- i though it was a cigarette until he put it out for a while. When again in English, a little angrier our prof asked him to leave. we continued playing and he lite the thing he was smoking again and since the winds had changed slightly we all realized it was not a cig but a joint that he was smoking. Luckily the next thing a porter was walking by- our professor was mad now and told the porter that he needs to leave. So he finally left. After he was way gone- our prof said he kept saying he enjoyed watching the ladies--- Adults do NOT say the darnedest things! ewww...it made Andi and I very uncomfortable... but whatever. Smoking pot is illegal here and has a sentence of 10 years in a work prison- I really wish it was the police not a porter who came! The prof was laughing after- "something to write home about!"
A Story Part 3: (Not cute at all)
You remember those ant hills- well I have had a few mini invasions in my room- but nothing Raid can not handle. But little rascals come by unexpected. They come out of my keyboard? They are found crawling on me- they really like me? They just show up- and they don’t die easily- they are so small I don’t get it. Ant that don’t die aren’t cute.
A Story Part 4:
Lizard mating season has begun. The hostel is alive with mating. I have seen numerous pairs- can’t wait for all the new rug rats to be running around. I have a new gecko in my room- Smaller then Bob. I don’t mind- he is a little more active then Bob. He shows up and runs around the room collecting those nasty bugs! They are good to have around.
Twi has 5 more classes left which is crazy...
I go to the orphanage tomorrow with Jess- who wants to start volunteering there as well. Which should be fun.
We are going to have a long day on Friday- we need to leave here like 630am to get to the festival before it starts and also to get good seat! Should be a lot of fun though!!!!
<3 Midge
The other afternoon/evening Andi and I went to the night market to get some food. There is a central part that splits the market in two and there were a bunch of kids- they usually say hello and thats about it. But two of the boys said and I quote "I Love you Baby, I love you" At first both of us were thinking they were talking to the little Ghanaian girls with them- but then they started following us- and kept saying it. They were like 7-9 years old so it was cute and all of the ladies in the market were laughing. Kids say the darnedest things?
A Story Part 2: (Not so cute chapter)
Today in drumming- location drum circle at front of campus- near a very busy street!
We were about 10 minutes into class when this very weird man walked over- he had a jean jacket on with no shirt on and jeans that were unbuttoned-where we could clearly see his red boxers. So for about 10 minutes he watched and our professor said that he needs to leave. He didn't and our prof was nice about it- so we actually got to the point were we were playing the song through and he started dancing- this time the professor asked him in Twi to leave and the guy said something back (not sure)... and then he lite something- i though it was a cigarette until he put it out for a while. When again in English, a little angrier our prof asked him to leave. we continued playing and he lite the thing he was smoking again and since the winds had changed slightly we all realized it was not a cig but a joint that he was smoking. Luckily the next thing a porter was walking by- our professor was mad now and told the porter that he needs to leave. So he finally left. After he was way gone- our prof said he kept saying he enjoyed watching the ladies--- Adults do NOT say the darnedest things! ewww...it made Andi and I very uncomfortable... but whatever. Smoking pot is illegal here and has a sentence of 10 years in a work prison- I really wish it was the police not a porter who came! The prof was laughing after- "something to write home about!"
A Story Part 3: (Not cute at all)
You remember those ant hills- well I have had a few mini invasions in my room- but nothing Raid can not handle. But little rascals come by unexpected. They come out of my keyboard? They are found crawling on me- they really like me? They just show up- and they don’t die easily- they are so small I don’t get it. Ant that don’t die aren’t cute.
A Story Part 4:
Lizard mating season has begun. The hostel is alive with mating. I have seen numerous pairs- can’t wait for all the new rug rats to be running around. I have a new gecko in my room- Smaller then Bob. I don’t mind- he is a little more active then Bob. He shows up and runs around the room collecting those nasty bugs! They are good to have around.
Twi has 5 more classes left which is crazy...
I go to the orphanage tomorrow with Jess- who wants to start volunteering there as well. Which should be fun.
We are going to have a long day on Friday- we need to leave here like 630am to get to the festival before it starts and also to get good seat! Should be a lot of fun though!!!!
<3 Midge
The woes continue
So yesterday- all of the woes continued. But I am fine with it as long as it doesn't last too long- the bathrooms can only handle so much! I didn't go to the Orphanage yesterday but am going Wednesday because we had major rainstorms that I got caught in. I called them to let them know and they were fine with it- I was planning on going twice this week- hopefully I can get my sleep pattern back to something normal- waking up at 4am is not needed. I tell you is not needed. So full day of classes today- Twi is almost over which is crazy! That means we are almost half way- Andi likes to remind me March 16 is the half way point. This is just a quick update for I have to head to class in a few minutes. More visits to the hospital for others continue- I want to lock myself in my room and not be near them. Its independence day this Friday- should be an experience! and then some other concert type things this weekend.
Thats it.
Midge
Thats it.
Midge
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Electricty, Water and Internet Woes
So the last week has been interesting in the situation in the hostel. We were with out power for some days (not continually) and water was down for over a day and I took my first bucket shower- I think it really isn't that bad, but a lot more work- so I will take regular ones over bucket! Internet is fine now- for how long no one knows- power is back- I don't care during the day but at night it wont be fun. Water though- lets just say no water is the worse- no toilets, showers or sinks- not a pretty sight or smell.
I went to the hospital with Ryan yesterday- he got a second opinion and found out the first meds they gave him he was basically allergic to. So hopefully this new doctor got it right. The hospital wasn't too bad- and the doctor he saw was very nice. Andi and I waited in the hallway- I was trying to get in touch with one of the other girls about the plans for the night but had no reception and I was like I guess we are in a dead zone- well not the best thing to say in a hospital....but I don't think anyone heard me but Andi!
A group of us- Andi, Ryan, Mal, Jess, Israel and I went to dinner and then to the show Dinner for Promotion at the Ampi-Theatre! This was the first time going to this space. It is on the hill at the north of campus. It is old fashion ampi-theatre. Brick walls are basically the seating with the curved sides. It is so nice just like at the other space to be outside. This show was much more well put together then the show last weekend. It was long but it flowed very nicely. It is next to Commonwealth Hall (Dorm) known for the wild boys of campus- they were a little rude they were making comments in Twi (very loudly)of course I don't know what they were saying but the Ghanaians kept laughing- so who knows.
Andi, Ryan, Israel, maybe Jess, and I are going to service again this morning. Hopefully it doesn't last as long as last week! This is Ryan and Jess's first time. Our group gets bigger each week. There are other people who go from ISEP as well, we can never find them though, But we won't be late this week either, so maybe we can find them this week- they change the time randomly and that is why we were late last week- and they aren't the only ones!
This week has been difficult for home/school "Sickness"- I know its the combination that this is the first Southern Show I haven't seen opened this weekend. I went to two shows the weekend, Its week 8, lots of birthdays at home, random people showing up in my friend requests on Facebook- for a good reason, the combination of the title of this entry, waking up so early in the morning to see all my friends still online from the night before! I guess that would be the combination of why I am having this "sickness". But I am fine!
That's it for now- Midge
I went to the hospital with Ryan yesterday- he got a second opinion and found out the first meds they gave him he was basically allergic to. So hopefully this new doctor got it right. The hospital wasn't too bad- and the doctor he saw was very nice. Andi and I waited in the hallway- I was trying to get in touch with one of the other girls about the plans for the night but had no reception and I was like I guess we are in a dead zone- well not the best thing to say in a hospital....but I don't think anyone heard me but Andi!
A group of us- Andi, Ryan, Mal, Jess, Israel and I went to dinner and then to the show Dinner for Promotion at the Ampi-Theatre! This was the first time going to this space. It is on the hill at the north of campus. It is old fashion ampi-theatre. Brick walls are basically the seating with the curved sides. It is so nice just like at the other space to be outside. This show was much more well put together then the show last weekend. It was long but it flowed very nicely. It is next to Commonwealth Hall (Dorm) known for the wild boys of campus- they were a little rude they were making comments in Twi (very loudly)of course I don't know what they were saying but the Ghanaians kept laughing- so who knows.
Andi, Ryan, Israel, maybe Jess, and I are going to service again this morning. Hopefully it doesn't last as long as last week! This is Ryan and Jess's first time. Our group gets bigger each week. There are other people who go from ISEP as well, we can never find them though, But we won't be late this week either, so maybe we can find them this week- they change the time randomly and that is why we were late last week- and they aren't the only ones!
This week has been difficult for home/school "Sickness"- I know its the combination that this is the first Southern Show I haven't seen opened this weekend. I went to two shows the weekend, Its week 8, lots of birthdays at home, random people showing up in my friend requests on Facebook- for a good reason, the combination of the title of this entry, waking up so early in the morning to see all my friends still online from the night before! I guess that would be the combination of why I am having this "sickness". But I am fine!
That's it for now- Midge
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
