This has been a wonder of a trip. Hard to believe that Harrison and I leave today, and that a few days shy of three weeks has gone. Each day surpassed the one  before, if that is even possible. To see Tanzania through the eyes of the people who live and work here is truly a gift. To learn, first hand, about the customs, the music the dance the SPIRIT, the LIFE, through invitations to homes, bomas, parties... words cannot describe how magical it was and the KARIBU ("welcome" in Swahili) feeling we had. We were honored guests, and it was an honor to be in the presence of these beautiful people.

The volunteer aspect at the Ngtaeu School was a joy. Seeing the children so grateful for our help, sponsorships, painting, dancing, reading,drumming and connection to their daily life and education filled my heart. They need to know and feel that there are caring people in the world, people like The Nelsons and all the others affiliated with Safi who support their growth and future. The faculty is impressive, the infrastructure and supplies improve each year, and they are proud to teach there.

 I will miss walking up the dusty hill, saying Jambo to the villagers and returning the smiles of the children who greet us so eagerly.

I will miss the comaraderie of our group of 16-- who I now feel are friends for life. Each has a gift which they shared with such great generosity-- humor, kindness, creativity, youth, wisdom, spirit. I thank David Nelson for so eloquently creating a Sunday service in the most beautiful setting, the synagogue/church/mosque of Nature, with god's land spreading before us. It was like a warm embrace. And including Harrison's Torah portion as part of the cloth he so beautifully wove was so very  appreciated.  To Mary, I thank her for her intuition, insight, and lovely way of being. Grace under pressure-- I don't know how she does it.

It was a gift to spend three weeks with my 16 year old son who was a delight in every way. A wonderful and rare opportunity to connect, and see before my eyes the man he is becoming. I will hold this time in my heart forever...

Safari was spectacular. A first time for both of us.  Loved every moment-- great guides,safe drivers, gorgeous accommodations... I cannot believe how much we packed in. I am also stunned by how little the trip cost relative to all that we got. ( I thought I would lose weight because I was warned by overcautious doctors.... hah! Every meal was delicious, authentic, and very nice to my body!!!!

I will be a lifelong Safi supporter and ambassador of the wonderful work you all do. Asanti Sana for bringing me into the fold.

With love and huge respect,
Barbara