Reflections After Guatemala

Welp--we're all back safe and sound in the United States!

The little fire "Johnny Tiger" built us at on the Mayan Nose.

After a hectic day of delayed flights and sprinting through airports, we made it back to Kansas City late last night, and I'm back to work at Graceland today. Did I mention that I came home to a toasty -19 degree wind chill in Lamoni? Because I did...and if feels just slightly different than balmy San Pedro.

As I walk around the office and people ask, "How was your trip?" I'm finding it hard to find the words to capture Guatemala. The easiest thing for me to tell people is this: "It was perfect. I wouldn't have changed a single thing." And truly, it was.

Who's afraid of a big bad Mayan calendar?

For many people, a trip or a vacation should include sandy beaches, relaxation and an overall feeling of tranquility and comfort. Our trip to Guatemala didn't include swimming in Lake Atitlan (trust me--it's not water that you'd want to frolic around in), gratuitous amounts of free time or a luxury suite--but as I said, it was simply outstanding. I would much rather live in a homestay, connecting with people from a culture unlike my own, than a resort. I would much rather wake up before the sun to climb 2/3 of a volcano or listen to a sermon I can't understand (because it's in the Mayan dialect, Tz'utujil) than rub my eyes from a warm bed at 10:00 a.m.

Melanie, queen of dominos.

San Pedro was the perfect location for our work. With about 3,000 inhabitants, it had that small-town Lamoni-like feel that I know and adore. We were able to safely walk everywhere we needed to go, pausing to say "Buenos Dias," "Buenos Tardes" and "Buenos Noches" along the way. The clinic in San Juan was full of passionate, kind-hearted workers and volunteers, and the patients at the clinic were true to their name (patient) as the nurses took vitals and drank in as much experience as they could. Though at times some of us were uncomfortable, the value our experience in the San Juan clinic is unquestioned. Many of the nurses had never seen first hand how bad a scabies epidemic could be. Many of us understood for the first time that diabetes isn't just an American, fast-food lifestyle problem--it springs up in more places that you'd think. And we all learned, regardless of our profession, how useful it can be to be bilingual.

Domingo and Melida, our host father and mother

Outside of the clinic, we saw true compassion for others when it came to health care. We worked with a curandero and midwife that charged little to nothing for their services. We saw people finding innovative ways to heal and help those around them, despite not having the most advanced technology. We learned about the flower remedies of Edward Bach, that can be used to treat emotional and spiritual ailments, when other medication is not available. The resourcefulness and compassion of these people is truly amazing.

Stephanie dancing with one of our classmates!

And in our Spanish classes and homestays, we learned to be brave. We learned that just because you aren't fluent in Spanish, just because you know you're making mistakes, there's no reason not to try not to speak a different language. Now, mind you, some of us made frequent or embarrassing errors (I consistently asked my teacher about being tired (cansado) instead of being married (casado)) and sometimes things didn't quite translate, but regardless of our barriers we were all able to make strong and lasting connections with the Spanish speaking people around us. We've returned back to the states with a larger Spanish vocabulary, and an even larger desire to further our Spanish education.

Ardella, riding home from San Juan in a tuk tuk!

While, naturally, some of the things I will remember the most vividly are the "touristy" things (kayaking, mountain and volcano climbing, zip lining, etc.) by far what I'll remember most fondly is the people of San Pedro. My host mom, Melida's concern about us getting enough to eat and her passion for controlling her diabetes, my host daughter, Melanie, trying to explain dominos to me in Spanish, and my teacher, Nicolas, telling me "tranquila, tranquila" when I was frustrated about not understanding verb conjugations. While the lifestyle and culture of San Pedro is quite different from my own, one things that translates perfectly is the love and passion for helping others.

Adios, San Pedro!

As we flew back last night, many of us were full of sadness about leaving Guatemala behind, but as we flew over the beautiful lights of Texas at night, we couldn't help but feel a little pride in our home country. We come back to the States full--of ambition, of stories, and tortillas. I hope from the bottom of my heart that we will continue this Guatemala winter term experience for many years to come--it's an experience that will open your eyes and fill you with love.

Thanks for reading,
Melissa

Our Last Night in Guatemala

¡Buenos Tardes!

Natasha, me, Karlee and Robin at the bottom of the Volcano

The past few days in Guatemala have been just as busy as ever. Friday morning started bright and early (well okay, maybe not bright--we met our tour guide for the climbing the San Pedro Volcano at 2:00 a.m.) After a 15 minute walk to the local park, we began the long trek up the mountain. And, sorry mom, for the second time in one week, we followed a stranger with a machete into dark woods. Our group--myself, Karlee, Robin and Natasha began to slowly make our way up the volcano. It was evident to us by 3:00 a.m. that this was going to be no simple task--our pace was slow, but we were determined. Around 5:30 a.m. we were just an hour away from the top--but unfortunately we had to turn around. A member of our group began to get altitude sickness, and in the dark, our guide insisted that if one of us went down the volcano, all of us had to. Though we were disappointed not to reach the top, it gives us all a fantastic excuse to return to Guatemala one day, and try it again.

Amanda, conquering Lake Atitlan!

After watching the sunrise in the park, we headed to our favorite cafe for some waffles, then went kayaking in Lake Atitlan. I´ll admit that we weren´t exactly the most skilled sailors on the water--but we had an amazing time.


After our morning fun, it was time for our last day of class. Parting with our teachers stung--over the last two weeks, we've spent 40 hours learning and growing with these wonderful people. We´ve frustratedly tried to conjugate verbs in our head, struggled to say what we wanted, and at times wanted to just give up and speak English--but through it all our teachers were there to help us, genuinely caring about us and wanting to help us get better. At any given time during class, you´d always be able to hear one of us just laughing with our instructors. And while saying goodbye to our teachers was bitter-sweet, saying goodbye to our host families this morning was even harder.

My teacher, Nicolas and I.

My host mom, Melida, and I up at 6:00 a.m. today to go on a little run through the smoother streets of San Pedro. As the sun and the clouds crawled over the mountains, we did a little jogging, a little talking and a lot of pantomiming the things we couldn´t say. After breakfast, it was time to finish packing and then say our tearful goodbyes. I think being a host family for a foreign student would be a wonderful experience, but I couldn´t imagine bearing such difficult goodbyes over and over again!

For now, we're spending the night in Guatemala City so we can be ready to catch our flight tomorrow morning. We´re sleeping in a cozy little hostel (my first hostel ever!) and the six students and I are sharing a room (yayyy, bunk beds!) En la mañana, it´s back to the United States!

Adios,

Melissa

News from the Philippines!

Hello everyone! I am sorry this is the first you have heard from the Philippines travelers in a long time. We have had some difficulty with the wifi connection at the hotel we are staying at. So, a lot has happened since you heard last.

Because of the established relationships between OPI and the community of Kapagena, Enactus has been able to spend time learning the ins and outs of this community. We have talked, laughed, and learned. But most importantly established relationships that developed the trust required for our project work.

Ethan, Becca, Chris, Andrea, and I, initially were split up and paired with the four different communities that make up Kapagena. Those being Pulong Visaya, KPK, Saganna, and Samanatayo. We were each paired with an OPI worker and went the the communities. The goal over the next few days was to form friendships, and learn of the needs and concerns of each communities. Our time was to be spent sharing meals, stories, and even sleeping in their homes one night. We were instructed that while doing this, we should attempt to identify and discuss their needs. Or rather, ask questions that would provoke them to recognize and vocalize these needs on their own. It is sometimes difficult to keep in mind just how different our cultures are. The way we think we would act in this poverty is not necessarily the right way. 

Over the next few days a variety of emotions were experienced. For some it was quite the rollercoaster from frustration, to joy, to many other feelings. Overall, we had an amazing time. We laughed until we cried, planted rice, rode water buffaloes, slept overnight in the community, and formed new bonds. Ethan received several marriage proposals. Becca sang Videoke (PhilippenoKaraoke.) Chris has eaten a variety of interesting food, from coagulated blood, to chicken intestine, to snake. And I have become painfully aware of just how tall and white I am. We each have describe many times where we were overcome by surreal "I can't believe I am right here and this is happening to me right now" feelings.

Along with all the fun, there have been some serious times. Sharing hardships, and simply witnessing poverty at an up close level. After this small glimpse of what life is like in Kapagena, and with the combined conversation results, we identified a lack of income sources as their greatest need.

Moving forward we plan to continue last years work of the L.O.V.E. project. This project was developed by the people of Kapagena with the guidance of SIFE last January. The project is simple enough, land ownership. Graceland Outreach Club has raised the funds to purchase the land. So now, we wait. Finding the right land is very difficult. Location, condition, and price all must be considered.

So today, after several days of communicating with each small community individually, Kapagena as a group met together. This meeting was facilitated by the Enactus Team. We organized their thoughts on what has been done and what needs to be done. And then sent them off with homework to create an action plan of the next necessary steps to accomplish their goals. The meeting went well and was even fun. Also some of our campfire songs were quite the hit.

The past few days have been very humbling. Everyone close to us has been truly kind. From the OPI staff, to the community members, to even the hotel staff. The generosity we all experienced is very inspiring, and something we could all learn from.

Climbing Mountains

Hola de San Pedro!

I cannot believe it is already jueves (Thursday.) Our time here is flying by so quickly. Our host father, Domingo, left yesterday for Guatemala City and it was so hard to say goodbye! It's hard to find the right words for a goodbye, even when you're both fluent in the same language.  

The Mayan Nose...do you see it?!

Other than that sad moment, this week has been full of happiness. Monday, we went to visit  a midwife in San Juan. The conversation was fascinating. She visits local mothers every three days and eventually delivers their babies for absolutely no charge. She makes her living and supports her children by making and selling scarves. She told us that she learned how to be a midwife in her dreams, dreaming throughout her childhood of how to cut the cord and ease the birthing process. After experiencing these dreams, she delivered three of her own children.

Tuesday, we had a free morning, so some of the nurses and I braved the climb to the Mayan Nose, a local mountain shaped like a face. The trip was about a two hour journey from our meeting spot. We started bright and early at 3:30 a.m., and arrived at the nose around 5:30 a.m., ready for the sunrise. The problem? Sunrise wasn't until 6:30 a.m. and it turns out it gets wicked cold the in the Guatemalan mountains! We shivered in the darkness for an hour, and the wait was certainly worth it--by far the most breathtaking sunrise I've ever seen! Our guide, Juan (aka Johnny Tiger) built a small fire for us and we warmed our hands and soaked in the sun. From there, we went walked to Santa Clara to go zip lining across the mountains! I expected myself to be a little scared, but when push came to shove, I wasn't scared, just amazed by the beautiful sights around me. More scary than the zip line was the truck ride back to San Pedro! But all is well and we made it here safe and sound.

Amanda watching the sunrise from the Mayan Nose.

Wednesday, we got a taste of what medicine is like when you don't have ideal technology. We visited a couple patients with the local cuandero, Pedro. Pedro used a series of massages to help some of his patients, and a simple remedy of olive oil, salt and lime for another. Similar to the midwives, Pedro doesn't try to make a profit with his services--he only charges what the medicine he gives costs.

This morning we woke up bright and early to go on a lakeside walk with our host mom, Melida, and her daughter, Melanie. Melida has diabetes, which is actually quite a large problem here, and she makes a great effort to exercise and eat well every day. We strolled the lake as the sun rose and it was truly a lovely moment, just chatting across language barriers as the sun creeped over the mountains.

As usual, we've been going to Spanish class this week, and learning more and more every day. I am truly a nerd--I have always loved going to school and I am so happy to be a student again. It's going to be hard saying goodbye to our teachers, but if I work hard, hopefully in the future I'll be able to send them a letter in fluent Spanish!


Volcan San Pedro, here we come!

Though our time here is coming to an end, we still have some adventures planned for the rest of the week. Tonight we're attending a Mayan ceremony and tomorrow morning at 2:00 a.m. four of us (are crazy) and making a hike up the closest volcano! Don't worry mom--we're going with a guide and the volcano is inactive. It's supposed to be a 3-4 hour hike up, then we have to hike back down. Needless to say, it's going to be an immense struggle, but with a positive mindset, I'll see another beautiful sunrise tomorrow morning. After class, we're treating our host parents to pizza, giving some gifts, and very sadly packing our things for home. Saturday morning we're headed out bright and early for a hotel in Guatemala City, then we're flying back to Kansas City on Sunday.

But before I get too far ahead of myself here--it's only jueves, and I have class in just a couple minutes! The next time I talk to you, I'll have (hopefully) climbed a volcano!

-Melissa

Nursing in Jamaica - Home

Hello, everyone!

I am happy to announce that I am safely back in good old Missouri.

Before heading home, the group spent at the most beautiful resort I've ever seen (okay, so it is the ONLY resort I have ever seen).  There were were able to shop and eat and dance and swim in the beautiful ocean. It was a fun experience, though I have to admit it was completely different from the experience I have had of Jamaica so far.  Even though it was the Jamaica most travelers know and fall in love with, it wasn't the Jamaica I knew.  I fallen in love with a different part: dirty streets that goats travel down,  crowded market places, and a clinic that needed us more than words can say.

Even now I can't help but reflect back on there.  I enjoyed my time at the resort, but it doesn't equal the joy that I felt those first five days serving the Jamaican people.  It was hard to leave because I know there is so much work left to be down, and I console myself knowing that even though the faces of those we weren't able to help stay with me, there was so many who had received our services. We were able to see 258 patients, not including the time spent at the schools.  Also, we the combined efforts of the group, we were able to leave one last thing behind:  a donation to the infirmary of a commercial blender, since theirs had broken down, along with medication, blood pressure cuffs, and much more.

Matron wrote a letter expressing her gratitude.  But I am much more grateful to her.  That there are woman like her in this world makes the world a much more beautiful place.

On Sunday, we spent all day traveling -- including as six hour layover in Atlanta (Yuck!).  It was a rough flight back to Kansas City, but we landed safely. As soon as I stepped from the airplane, a blast of cold air hit me, my breath froze, and I knew I was back in Missouri.  It was so good to see my family again and to tell them about the adventures I've had, but I'm surprised about how much I honestly miss Jamaica.

I miss the warmth, of the son and of the helpers down there.  I miss working with the people everyday.  I am relieved to be home, but a part of me, I think, will always miss the places that felt like home, even for just a few days.

My lesson: We can all make a difference, and no difference is so small that it doesn't matter.  Go out in the world and do good wherever you can.

I want to keep the attitude I learned down in Jamaica with me.  As matron taught, love is the most important thing you can give to someone.  It is what I felt from the people in Jamaica, and that spirit of Christ's love is what I want to carry as I go through life.

I feel completely blessed to have had this experience, and I am hoping that in a few years, the opportunity will present itself to go back.  And I will go, in a heartbeat!

Here to wishing you a life full of adventures!

~Chante'

Chipulukusu

I got to experience true joy! The new Kafwa center ribbon cutting!! We went to church Sunday morning which was amazing! The music! The choirs! I have never heard such good choirs in my life before... I was amazed. Then after that was the ribbon cutting.

First a little introduction to the Kafwa. The word Kafwa refer to a group of people that have been volunteer community health workers for the past twenty years for their village, Chipulukusu. With simple health training from Sherri Kirkpatrick, a great woman, they have been able to care for the most vulnerable in their community. Sometimes all they can provide is simply the ministry of presence, but that is so much when life is so hard. They do other things like make home health visits, cook the school lunch, weigh new infants, give sanitation advice, run a child support group for orphans who have usually lost one or both parents to AIDS. The Kafwa are amazing and have done so much for their community. Now they have a building of their own that they can cook in, will have a library, have a nurse's station for sick kids during school, and a large room to work in for their income generating projects. Exciting stuff! And you could tell it was during the ceremony. Mre singing and dancing while we were in the front row being treated almost like royalty simply because we were their guests.

Then on Monday there was an all day worksho for community leaders from Chipulukusu, Zamtan, and Chingola to talk about building happy and strong communities.

Tuesday is when the real fun began, though! This was the first day I was in the classrooms and was able to teach my lesson using the book "Chicken Little." I'm modeling a lesson output predicting, but moe importantly showing how you can use the students in the lesson by having them at out the story, stop and ask them what they think is going to happen in the story, and putting life into read alouds. The pupils have seem to enjoy it and have been engrossed in the story as I tell it. I would be no where without the translation of the teachers here at the school though so kudos to them!  Then after that we got to introduce to grade five how playing cards could be used as a tool to teach math. It was fun because almost all the kids have never even seen playing cards before.

Tuesday afternoon after school we got to meet with teachers first and then the school board. It was really interesting and gave a real insight into Zambian cultur and their education system.

Today I did my Cjicken Little lesson again and an activity about houses for grade one. Also, I got to read a story to grade six about a true happening of a woman empowering others in Kenya while working for the environment. I am a sucker for cute kids though and won't forgot the little boy that fell asleep in my arms during nursery today. Much to do and plan for tomorrow being our last day in Chipulukusu.

Sorry for no pictures and for the many spelling errors in this quick, quick summary. Technology is not my friend in ZambiA, well, not anywhere for that matter.

Andrew Murphy

From a Few days ago...

A lot of meeting has been taking place the last couple of days! Yesterday, we had church in Chipulukusu and got to experience all the fun they have while worshipping! I learned a new song and dance that seem to come in handy so far, seeing as how it appears to be a favorite of the church congregation.

After church, we walked across the yard and had a celebration for the opening of the Kafwa Center, a building used solely for the Kafwa, a group of volunteer health care workers. They were so excited about having their own building, and it was impossible not to share their joy. We got to interact with the village's children briefly, and again today, but tomorrow-the first day of school- we'll have a lot more time with them.

Today was dedicated to the adults. We had a day long meeting regarding community action, program development, and the future of their healthcare and education for their children. Even though we sat in discussion most of the day, we were a bit exhausted from the harsh sun on our twisting, rocky half hour walk back to the guest lodge. It probably didn't help that our bellies were full of nshima, spinach and chicken (which we ate the Zambian way- no silverware!)

Tomorrow begins teacher mentoring, so I should go work on my watercolor lesson examples!

Chichicastenango

Hola again from Guatemala!

It's been a busy weekend for us in Guatemala. Saturday morning, some of the nurses woke up bright and early to go zip lining in the mountains. The girls who went said it was a scary experience--but certainly worth the trip! Not too many people in the world can say that they've gone zip lining on a volcano.

Natasha made a friend at the restaurant we ate at.

After they returned, it was off for a 2.5 hour drive through the mountains to Chichicastenango. Linda, our translator, gave my some Peruvian medicine for motion sickness before we left and--success! No car sickness whatsoever!

After arriving in Chichi, we checked into our cute little hotel and had a nice dinner as a group. Between our Spanish classes, separate homestays and clinical visits, it's hard for us to get the entire group together, so it was wonderful to share each other's company again. We went to bed early so we could be rested up and ready to tackle Chichi.

This morning, it was up and at 'em! We started the day with a two hour tour of Chichi, where we got to hike up one of the smaller hills and look at a Mayan ceremonial spot. Something I find truly wonderful about this culture is how they've blended some of their religions together. The Catholic church here has a Mayan alter in it, and the Mayan ceremonial spot had crosses in it.

Amanda (left) and Stephanie at dinner!

After the tour, it was a big day of shopping in Chichi. Chichi is all about bartering, so we had to have our Spanish numbers memorized pretty well. By the end of the day we were all fairly exhausted, but happy to have experienced one of Central America's largest markets. We took a van to Panajachel, then a boat back to San Pedro. San Pedro has truly started feeling like a home to us, many of us were saying "home, sweet home" when we stepped off the boat.

After another nice dinner together, it was back to work--we all have homework to finish up for class tomorrow. In the morning, we're up bright and early to shadow some local midwives, then it's back to class.

Buenos Noches!

-Melissa

Hello from The Philippines!

Hello everyone! This evening concludes our second full day in the Philippines. After 31 hours of travel we arrived late Friday night to Manilla. We were very tired and slept comfortably in a nice hotel. Saturday morning an outreach staff member, Val, picked us up from the hotel and drove us to Cabanatuan City, where we will stay primarily in the next couple weeks.

Saturday was filled mostly with driving, and because of the 14 hour time difference from here to the Midwest, we were very tired and disoriented. Understanding that, the OPI (Outreach Philippines Incorperated) staff left the evening for rest and dinner.

We all fell asleep early that night, but were wide awake at 5am the next morning! This was okay though, it gave us plenty of time to prepare for church. We attended a small Community of Christ congregation where we were welcomed by friends. Our group enjoyed the music, message, and fellowship. It was such a neat experience for all of us, as COC members, to experience our church in a new culture.

OPI workers and church members were very happy to see all of us. Particularly, Ethan who participated in this trip last January, and is now back for his second time. Ethan also had been so excited to see these friends. He says, "It feels like no time has passed."

After church, lunch, and purchasing some $1 sunglasses, we gathered at the OPI head quarters for an orientation meeting. We were able to get a better grasp on what the next couple weeks will entail in that meeting. Chris, Becca, Andrea, and I, who were not here last year, learned more about last years work. And also about the steps we will be taking to learn and address needs of the community.

We shared dinner with the staff, which was filled with laughter and adventures. Andrea accidentally tipped over a bottle of water trying to share her dish. Before any of us could react, majority of the liquid had emptied directly on the crotch of Chris's pants. Turns out looking like you peed your pants is funny in any language! Later in the meal we began discussing interesting foods that are common here. Pigs blood soup, fried chicken heads, and a variety of intestines were all mentioned. But what horrified us the most was a hard boiled egg in which the chicken fetus is partially developed. We joked about it for a while, and soon it was realized that a vendor carrying these treats was right outside. Emily, one of the OPI staff, and our bravest Enactus member, Becca each ate one. We were so impressed and of course captured it on film.

Tonight we are all still tired. Our minds all seem to be full of hopes, ideas, and some concerns for how the next few weeks. We are all definitely excited to see what they will hold. More later. Thank you!

Kylie Bassett and
Philippines Enactus Team

It works!

Danica here, finally! I've had Internet access but was experiencing browser problems with Blogger. So, where to begin?! Last week seems like ages ago- I have been through KC, DC, London, Johannesburg, South Africa, and Livingstone, Lusaka, and now Ndola in Zambia. Physically travelling is not so fun for me, so I am glad we are in Ndola for 6 days.

On our day trip exploring London between flights, I rode my first subway- the Underground! It was cold and grey outside and everything reminded me of Harry Potter. We were able to see Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Parliament and Big Ben, and the Royal Horse Guard. I ate fish and chips for lunch and a tart as a snack...When in London!

In Johannesburg, we visited a lion park and were able to pet lion cubs, feed and pet giraffes, and see a whole field of different animals- zebra, gazelle, giraffes and ostriches!

In Livingstone, we visited Victoria Falls (my second visit) and it was as breathtaking as I remember. Truly beautiful.

Yesterday in Lusaka, we traveled to a highly developed community school called Chikumbuso that was very inspiring to us in our goals for the Health Ed Connect schools. Our tour guide, Mama Gertrude, told us her incredible personal story while showing us their library (complete with laptops!) It had a profound effect on me, and I know that this experience will be both joyous and heartbreaking for me, and I'll have to process it in a positive way.

We also met with Samantha Chula, the director for the Room to Read program in Zambia. It was founded by a man who worked with Microsoft and left the corporation to follow his passion in educating youth in extreme poverty. They have two focuses, literacy and the girls program to keep girls in school because they have drop out rates due to pregnancy and caring for the home. I took 7 pages of notes, so I definitely found a lot of their ideas interesting, especially their theory on teaching in a mother tongue till 4 or 5, then teaching in English,

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Kafwe center at Chipulukusu and worship service- after a half hour walk there due to the tremendously poor road conditions (many, MANY potholes.) Update you later!

Terremoto!

Natasha and Karlee outside the clinic in San Juan

It's another beautiful night in San Pedro!

Today was my day off from the clinic, so I was able to spend my morning doing a little homework in the hammock outside my room. The nursing students that went to San Juan today had a unique experience--they experienced their first earthquake! Never fear, none of us were in danger--in fact, my friend Karlee and I didn't even feel it.


Tortillas! Nom nom nom.

Before lunch time, Karlee and I joined our host mom, Melida, in a little tortilla making. It was enjoyable but I have to say--I make some ugggg-ly tortillas. After lunch, it was back to school, where I struggled through the past tense in Spanish (and can I say I hate the word 'Hacer?' Because I do.) After a quick coffee break, my teacher Nicolas and I walked around San Pedro, delivering food to families in need. The school we go to, La Cooperativa, donates money to the community to help needy families, build houses and help fund local students' educations. Nicolas and I dropped off food at three houses, one where the father was blind, and two where the fathers had died. The experience reminds me of just how lucky I am to have what I have. I may drive a '95 Taurus and I might eat my fair share of Ramen, but I am truly blessed to have the things that I have.

After school, Karlee and I played dominos with Melida's daughter. I had never played before, but I somehow learned a new game in Spanish.

Tomorrow morning, we're headed out to Chichicastenango, where one of the largest markets in Central America is. I have to admit--I'm a little nervous to be driving through the mountains again, but the trip will surely be worth it! That's all I have for you tonight--hasta luego!

Nursing in Jamaica -- Last Day on the Job

Hello, readers! Guess what?

We did it!

Five days of working in the clinic is coming to a close, and what a grand finale it has been! Today, the team was split into three groups and sent around Falmouth.  One stayed at the clinic, and though I've heard it was busy and there was only one doctor and the dentist, I've also heard it went very well.

The second group was able to go to a the public health department down here.  The woman in our team worked very hard to make the right connections so that a team could go there, and I can't tell you how big of a deal it was that she was able to set up the clinic there.  The look on her face when she found out they had agreed last night was all the information I needed on how wonderful it was.  They set up a clinic and did well-infant checks.  I've heard it went amazingly well.  I haven't been able to sit any heard stories yet, but if I hear anything more worth sharing, I will post it later.

The third group (including myself) was sent again to the All-Age School.  And boy, what an experience! It was the first time I really got to work with kids, and even though sometimes the school sounded like a scene out of a World War II film, the visiting I got to do with the younger were awesome.  They were very excited to have us there, and kids who weren't even there to see the doctor would come in to meet the white medical team. Some would hug us, and they all wanted to listen to their hearts with our stethoscopes.

Most were there only for minor colds and check-ups, but we got to treat a few head wounds who showed up at the office, blood still on their faces.  The good news about that is all the wounds were minor and they were able to be cleaned up and sent out the door.  One little girl was shaken up and I sat with her and let her play games on a teammates phone until she was smiling again. 

In short, if I needed something that would validate my desire to be a pediatric nurse, it came today.

Lesson for today:   I want to do this again.

Okay, so maybe I already knew that from the first day.  If I had a dream of working as a nurse in the global mission field before, it has become even stronger until it is a passion.  It is more than "I want to do this again", but "I want to do this for my whole life".  Being a nurse in a foreign country, as been such a wonderful experience.  The welcome and the appreciation I have felt here is difficult to describe.  Even though the feelings of homesickness are finally beginning to sink in, I am proud of what I and my school and all the others who joined us were able to accomplish this week.  And when I leave the dorm tomorrow, I will miss the new friends I have made.

Tomorrow, we go to the resort. It will be a full day of food and the beach.  I doubt I will take a break from all the fun to blog, but I will be sure to tell you the adventures I have the following two days when I land safely in Missouri.  Okay, so maybe after I've had a long, long night's sleep.

Have an awesome weekend!
~Chante'

Hello from Zambia! First writing!

Sorry all! This was my first copy, but I had thought the computer I was using lost all my writing so I wrote a shorter one posted minutes ago. Feel free to read both. See my first one below:

We made it and are having a great time! I have been blessed to be a part of a great community that has grouped together in hope for a better tomorrow.
From the start of our journey we have toured London for a day seeing some amazing sites like Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and got to eat fish n chips for lunch! A great way to start a trip. Then for our second night in a row for an airplane chair as our bed we landed  in Johannesburg on Tuesday morning. There we got to go to a lion park seeing lions, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, water buffalo, and hienas all for the first time! I found out that I am amazed and absolutely love giraffes (besides the slobber on my hand when I was feeding and petting it)! The lions! Wow, seeing them was a great experience, but being within around four to five feet was breath taking! Pictures to come when technology is available! On Wednesday we got on another plane and flew to Livingstone, which is in the most southern tip of Zambia. Finally in Zambia! When we got there we got to go tour Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Pictures, videos, or any other kind of technology can not do justice to being there, being soaking wet, and being able to be able to stay and gaze at it for however long you wish! On Thursday we got on another plane (our last one for a couple weeks!) to fly north to Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. Immediately after unpacking our bags to our guesthouse we went directly to the country headquarters for a meeting with an organization called Room to Read. This organization is in ten countries and purpose to raise literacy in children through providing libraries in schools and communities among several other programs. They we super nice and the country director, Samanatha, was wonderful to us and answered all of our questions. The reason for that meeting and stopping in Lusaka for a couple of days before going into the Copperbelt, where HealthEd Connect sites are, is to network with other organizations that can give ideas, feedback, and simply to create and maintain relationships that provide opportunities to share what works for them, what they would try to do differently, and for us to ask questions on how to better shape HealthEd Connect's three community schools. Finally today (Friday) we got to visit a community center/school called Chickumbuso. This was started as a outreach to widows which as turned into a community center that has a shool, library, shop that sells goods made by the widows, and much, much more! This was a great visit because this is a model of what HealthEd Connect's schools want to look like in the future. Talked to Gertrude there an had a humbling experience listening to her story of how Chickumbuso changed her life and the struggles she has gone through. It was a moment, for me, of yes the goal of the HealthEd Connect schools is a possibility and can be done!
Tomorrow we leave on a bus to go north to Ndola, where we will be staying the next seen nights. Sunday morning at nchurch will be our first experience with the communities we are involved in. I'm excited to meet the people that are apart of the community that my friends he been talking about.
Of course all of this was written without the great stories that go along with it for time sake. All of the coffee in the portage, rummy playing, Stu's birthday, and the great people we are meeting will have to wait until a later time.

Hello from Zambia!

Greetings from Zambia! After sightseeing in London, Johannesburg, and Livingstone we are in Lusaka preparing in meetings with other organizations and within our own group. A more detailed itinerary would have been possible if my wifi didn't log me out of my full report and have to start over so more to come, hopefully. 

Today we visited a community center/school called Chickumbuso in Lusaka. This was our first real introduction and seeing of some of the great struggles that go on in Zambia. Chickumbuso was amazing and was started as a center for widows, but has now expanded to a school, library, shop where goods are sold that have been made by the widows, and much more! I had a humbling experience listening to Gertrude's story of how Chickumbuso has change her life and the struggles that she has gone through. She was one of the ones that helped right from square one with getting this great organization started. It was an amazing experience because it was an assurance that yes we can do it. HealthEd Connect's three community schools in the Copperbelt want to model what Chickumbuso have in place so it was great to see the facilities and meet some of the teachers. 

Tomorrow we get on a bus to Ndola where we will be stAying for the next seven nights.  This is locate in the Copperbelt where HealthEd Connect's three sites/schools are located. Sunday morning at church will be the first time we get to meet the people that my friends have been talking about this whole time so I am excited to meet them! Of course this was written without talking about seeing things like Westminster Abbey, seeing giraffes and lions for the first time, Victoria Falls, having coffee in my morning portage, and of course the mAny laughs and great people we have met along the way. I'm having a great time and am learning more and more each day about Zambian culture and their education system! Well, off of take my Malaria medication and to bed. A great start to 2013! I urge all of you to leArn more about what HealthEd Connect is all about  because it is a great organization in which I believe more and more in each day. Good night! 

Andrew Murphy

Can I Take All My Classes In San Pedro?

Hello again from Guatemala!

I haven't been able to post in a while because our days here are FULL, but wonderful.

The hammocks at Melida's house!

First thing is first--my host family is wonderful. We live a little far from the center of town, but it is completely worth it. Our family has a pretty little terrace, painted orange, where Karlee Cole and I are rooming. There are hammocks right outside our door, and we do our Spanish homework there every night. Melida, our host mom, is a fantastic cook. I had been assuming that I would lose a little weight in Guatemala but there is no way on earth that is going to happen--we have three meals a day and they are all delicious (even the one that was named "moosh." Pancakes, soups, eggs, rice, tortillas, pastas, vegetables, fruits--you name it, we've eaten it. Melida's husband, Domingo, and daughter, Melanie are wonderful and very patient with us. Most of our meals last for an hour because we are trying to make conversation across language barriers. Today we probably spent 15 minutes with Melanie trying to figure our what movie she was talking about (it was Rise of the Guardians.)

During our mornings here, we go to a clinic in San Juan, where the nursing students take paitents' vitals. Though we struggle with the language barrier, sometimes having to use two different translators (one to translate the Mayan dialect to Spanish, and another to translate Spanish to English) the clinic has been wonderful. Another bonus--you don't need to speak Spanish when you're playing with the children sitting around in the waiting room.

The view from La Cooperativa! Not bad, huh?

During our afternoons, we go to our Spanish school which is in a BEAUTIFUL setting. It's outdoors in little huts, overlooking the lake (see the bottom photo.) We're surrounded by volcanoes, plants, and a few stray dogs (my favorite being Rocky.) My teacher, Nicotu, has been wonderful and very patient with me (but he doesn't show a lot of mercy when it comes to assigning homework.

Well--that's all I have for you tonight--the cafe I'm at (Cafe Atitlan, located in what the locals call "Gringo Land") is closing.

Hasta Luego!

-Melissa

Nursing in Jamaica -- The Glistening Waters

Today was a more relaxing day for me.  I was assigned to assist our cook, and we made a trip to the market.  It was raining off and on, and knowing we had a full day of activities planned, I was keeping my fingers crossed that the rain clouds went away.  A woman came by; I can't remember her name or all she said, but she talked about her faith and belief in God.  She was so passionate about her faith, and she told us.  "I'll pray for sun, and you'll get sun."

Sure enough, we got sun! 

 After lunch, the cook didn't assign us anything else so I headed over to the clinic to help with doing papaya seed teachings.

Papaya seeds are truly wonderful things.  When dried and crushed, they can work as a medication for worms, for both treatment and prevention.  I got to quickly learn and teach the people waiting on the porch how to do this. It was a pleasure to be able to talk to them.

After we closed the clinic, the whole group jumped aboard a bus to take the luxurious ride to the Martha Brae. And by luxurious, I mean flying down a narrowed road on (to us) the wrong side of the road, barely missing cars and pedestrians. All paranoia aside though, our driver is excellent, and once again, had us laughing.

The Martha Brae is a long, beautiful river.  The rafts that go on the river are made of long pieces of bamboo with a wooden bench built on it.  Two people can ride on a raft, while an attendant stirs with another long piece of bamboo.  The scenery was beautiful and it was so very relaxing. I even got to stir the boat (most of the classmates gave it a try).  Believe me when I say, it isn't as easy as it looks.

After a dinner at the dorm (and after nightfall), we were loaded back onto the bus and driven to a bay where the Martha Brae and the ocean meet.  This place was called the "Luminous Lagoon" or "The Glistening Water", because there is live microflora that live in these waters.  They light up when irritated, just like fireflies.

 We were loaded onto a small boat (so small a few of us road on the front of the boat -- me included.  [Please remember that this is illegal in the states.] I leaned against the windshield and gazed up.  The night was clear and all the stars were close and clear.  It was beautiful. But not as amazing as the water.  When we stopped and got in, we got to understand what he meant by fireflies.  Every time I moved across the surface, little yellow lights would appear, like fairy dust.  It was the closest to Tinkerbell I will ever be.  

To all of you reading this: Jamaica is beautiful.  If you ever have the opportunity to go, go!

My lesson for today: Faith can move mountains. And occasionally, the sun.

~Chante'

Hello everyone!

After a day of orientation at the Graceland campus in Independence, Ethan Pitt, Chris Clark, Becca Ferguson, myself, and our chaperone, Andrea Read, are gathered at the home of Pam and Jim Ash in Liberty. They have graciously welcomed us into their home for an evening of fellowship. We have spent the day with twelve other students and several adults that will be traveling to Nicaragua with Outreach International as well. But, we will be parting ways bright and early tomorrow morning.

We are heading to the airport around five am and will be traveling for a long time! Because of the thirteen hour time difference, we are going to be very confused tomorrow. I have decided to think of tonight as a quick nap, and will hopefully sleep lots on the plane.

We are all very excited for the adventure ahead. We are so excited to learn about a new culture, meet new people, and see this beautiful land. I hope to post often telling of our experiences. I hope that we will all be safe and healthy for our travels, and I also hope the same the other students traveling to Nicaragua, Zambia, Guatemala, etc. You'll hear from me soon from the other side of the world! So excited!

Kylie Bassett
Philippines Enactus Team

Nursing In Jamaica -- No Problem, Mon!

Wednesday, January 9th, 2013

 

Hello! Thanks for coming back for the next adventure! 

 

Today has been slightly less eventful for me, perhaps because I've began to settle between the routine.  I worked at the clinic in two different positions: women's health and with one of the doctors.  I got to work very closely with the patients and learned that there is nothing more important than education. It also surprised me how open and receptive so many of the patients were to the teachings.  They were very trusting and most of their response was, "No problem." 

 

The truly exciting thing that happened with the team is that we were able to set up visit to some of the schools down here, to treat the kids.  The first was today and though I wasn't able to go, I heard it went wonderfully.  I will be able to work on the clinic at the school Friday and I will be able to write about the experience then.

 

I was able to experience the market place as well.  It is completely different than what we think of as "going shopping" back in the States. Their version of a "mall" is booths piled high with clothes. The experience was completely different, but definitely amazing.   The funniest thing was being repeatedly asked "Are you a doctor?" by everyone you ask.  Note to self: don't go out to the market place in scrubs.

 

I did find some beautiful treasures, including a bracelet that reads "No problem", I am hoping it will remind me of the attitude the Jamaican bring, that even after hours of waiting (they get here at 6 a.m. and wait, sometimes as late as 5 p.m.) they are grateful and kind, and not at all the grouchy person I would be.  They are grateful and kind.

 

I am hoping some of this attitude can rub off on me.

 

My lesson for today: Attitude is everything!

 

This has been another adventure in Jamaica.  Tomorrow we are going canoeing and to that luminious lagoon I was telling you about, so I am sure I will have lots to write tomorrow.

 

Good night, mon!

 

Chante' 

Nursing in Jamaica -- The Infirmary

Tuesday, January 8th, 2013

Today was probably the most emotional, hardest, and most tiring day so far.

It is also the most wonderful.

Today, a group of students were chosen to go to an infirmary. It is a kind of long-term care facility, except they do not pick and choose who they take. They take the poor, the sick, the homeless, the mentally ill, the elderly the crippled, and anyone who simply needs help. It is not uncommon for people to be dropped off at their gates and left...no history, just the knowledge that they need help. It is run by a single woman Matron is her title (the highest title for a nurse in Jamaica). She is the only trained RN in this facility (despite there being around 50 people there). And she has to be one of the most amazing women I have ever met.

The place, when compared to nursing homes of America, might seem like a shack at first. There may have been as many as 20 beds in one large room where the patients stayed. However, not a single one of the rooms smelled of the urine and feces that I think of when I think of even some better hospitals and their private rooms. Bed sores were unheard of, and no incontinent patient was ever left uncleaned.

The secret to this woman's success: love.

She told us the most important thing you can do to treat patients is give them love. I feel like this is the concept, of treating people with love, that first lead me into nursing, and yet it is a principle that seems to be forgotten. I saw the meaning of true beauty and love in this place. Seeing these people, who some had just left and abandomed, so well taken care of was the purest example of Christ's love I have ever seen.

We got to see a tour of the place (it was right on the sea), and then she took us around to meet the patients. She told us to welcome them, and one man stood and began to sing to us. They all joined in. It was perhaps the most beautiful thing I have ever seen or heard. And I was so touched I had to fight to keep from crying.

More wonderful things happened that day. When I worked with the dentist who came with us, I and a few of my fellow classmates got to assist in rebuilding teeth, something that truly made the patient happy. But all day those faces stayed with me, but the person who remains with me, is the woman who loved them so deeply. When I think of the nurse I want to be one day, she's it.

It's funny. I came here to change lives; instead, I find it is my life that is being changes.

My lesson today: You should travel not in the hopes of teaching others, but to learn from others.

~Chante'

Nursing in Jamaica -- First Day

January 7th, 2013

What did I learn my first day as a Jamaican stow away?

That whole thing about rooster crowing at the rising sun? Total myth! They crow, whenever they want, loud and piercing and ONLY when you're trying to sleep.  The one who lives on our street taught us this...repeatedly. Thank God for ear plugs!

The other thing I learned: I am now an expert at urine checks.  That was my job in the clinic.  When we arrived, the people were crammed on the porch already waiting (where some of them had been for as many as five hours by the time we opened at eight).  Even though the only doctors on this trip are pediatricians,  we saw mostly adults.  All of us were out of our comfort zones today, but I am sure we all learned a lot about the people. 

The Jamaican speak English, but even so, they have a way of shorten words until it sounds like a completely different language. This lead to some communication barriers. Luckily, they were pateitn people and very grateful to have us.  In fact, if I can think of two words to describe them, patient and kind would be the too.  "No problem, mon" describes them so much.  Despite waiting for hours, they were not grouchy, but smiles and jokes and so very appreciative.  

The thing that sticks out to me the most is when one of the earliest patients of the day told me "I'm glad you're here. When you're not here, we're scared."

I didn't know what to say. Except thank you..which didn't seem right. Except I was grateful...that he reminded me of exactly why it was so important that we were here and that we were making an important difference.

We finished early enough that everyone got to tour Falmouth. Out guide was excellent and gave us a real taste of the town.  He made us try a few local treats: a Jelly fruit which looked like a cantaloupe, but was hacked up until there was a small hole in the center, which lead to the hollow center filled with a water.  They stuck in a straw and told us to drink. It tasted like water-downed sugar. Not my favorite, but interesting all the same.  

Sugar cane we also got to try.  It was like chewing on bark (essentially it is), but the juice it produced was sweet.  I enjoyed it, though our group might have looked like Bugs Bunny chewing on them.  

The last thing we did (an my favorite) was go to the ocean.  I didn't expect to go so soon, but I was so excited.  There is nothing -- I repeat nothing -- so awesome as standing with wave around your ankles and starting at water as far as the eye can see I felt amazed, at how big and beautiful the world is, and how small I am in comparison. 

So to sum up my experience in Jamaica, the people are wonderful and the food is great and I am more and more grateful to be here every second. 

Even when that dang rooster is crowing! 

The lesson I am taking away from today is:  Communication difficulties have little to do with language. They have a lot to do with people. 

Hope you are enjoying every moment like I am learning to do! 

Chante'

Nursing in Jamaica -- Journey to the Island

Hello, my fellow Graceland students (and all others who may have found your way here -- which in that case, welcome).  Guess where I am writing to you from? If you guessed, Jamaica, well, then you are one smart cookie (and obviously read the title).  Today is Tuesday and the first time I have had internet access. However, I have been writing a blog by hand every day it has happened and my next two posts will be those previously ones.  So even though the time stamp will be different than the dates on the entry, well, I guess you will just have to pretend.  I hope you will read and experience my adventures so far.

Sunday, January 6th, 2013

FIRST FLIGHT

At 3:25 am, after only four hours of sleep, my alarm went off like the sound of a nuclear alarm.  But I was already awake. Today was the day!

By 4:10, I was throwing my stuff in my friend's car and on the way to the Kansas City Airport.  We got through without too much problem (except that pudding cups are apparently a dangerous weapon and had to be taken) and we climbed aboard our plane.

So, as determined as I have been to keep an open mind, I realized I had one preconceived notion that was quickly blown apart Planes are not often the huge, house-in-the-sky that I've seen on TV. They are little metal tubes that you must somehow fit 50 people and their luggage. It is the equivalent to fitting eight people into a mini-van for a road trip -- except you are thousands of feet in the air.  I had to cram my backpack between my legs and squeeze myself against the window.  I thank God He made me short and I didn't need much leg room and braced myself for take-off.

Lesson learned: That feeling as you zoom down the runway -- from 0 miles an hour to flying -- is one of the greatest rushes in the world.

We all landed alive and well in Atlanta, where we had a short lay-over.  We climbed aboard a second, slightly more spacious air craft and headed towards Jamaica.

Spoiler alert: I survived that flight too.

ARRIVING IN JAMAICA

When the pilot announced that we would be landing shortly, I watched as the distant ripples of the ocean turned into Jamaica. It was breath-taking. Mountains rose and fell, covered with thick, green trees.  And the ocean was a beautiful turquoise. 

It was so excited that I high-fived my fellow traveled, Kris, and announced, "We're in Jamaica!" before we even landed. Then, of course, I had to repeat the whole celebration when we were on solid grand. 

I am in Jamaica!

EXPERIENCING JAMAICA

 The group got through costumes with fair amount of ease (besides for a few interrogations that made some us wonder if we looked like hardened criminals). We stepped outside in the Jamaican sunlight, and about melted on the spot.  I knew it would be like summer, but no matter how you brace yourself when you go from shivering and chattering of teeth to hallucination about cool clothes and air conditioning in a matter of hours, it hits you like a smack in the face.

We climbed aboard a bus (with air conditioning that quickly had us all shivering again) and waited until started to move It was a starling moment when we realized no one was in the drivers' seat.  Until of course, we realized that he was driving from the left side.  

The bus driver (one of our "Jamaican friends" -- the wonderful group of people who have been assisting us this week) made an excellent and engaging tour guide and he talked all about what we were seeing as we drove by. But his jokes and stories are not what sticks with me or with most of my classmates.  It was the stalk difference we saw by merely turning our heads.  

On the left side of the road, along the beach, were resorts so ground they looked like only movie stars stayed there (and in some, that was the case). On the right were unfinished houses where people lived, metal sticking from walls.  There was often no roof and many walls were left open. These were family's homes where they waited for the money to finish building.  This was a life none of us would have to live, but it was very rare and very common for people here. 

This poverty didn't surprise me, but it did get me thinking about how many people never stop to see what lies across the road.  We are so caught up in the grand things of life (fancy hotels and perfect beaches, the latest technology), that we don't stop to pause and look at everything.  We miss the differences in the way people choose to lives and how truly blessed they are. 

It is a humbling experience, to say the least.

We arrived safely at our dorm (rooms with little more than a couple of beds and shared bathrooms at the end of the hall) and have managed to settle in. The first meal was delicious and I'm excited to see what else is in store. The classmates chatted and played silly games as the sunset and it grew much cooler (though still much warmer than you must be experiencing in your corner of the world -- sorry!).

Now, writing this, I feel strangely at peace.  I know I am a 1000 miles from home, but I feel as though it might be just around the corner. As though I am right where I belong. 

We begin work at the clinic tomorrow and I am nervous and excited all at once.  My prayer is to be a humble servant and to accomplish my responsibilities. We'll see how it goes. 

My lesson for today: Life is not always as it seems from the outside. Don't be afraid to cross that "road" and find the truth. 

Join us next time for the adventures of Winter Term 2013. 

~ Chante' 

 

¡Hola de Guatemala!

A procession for Three Kings Day.

We've made it to Guatemala! I don't have much time to write- we're eating in a café with free WiFi and I'm just waiting on my food- pancakes with peanut butter, fried bananas and chocolate syrup (so nutritious.) We flew out of KCI early yesterday, sprinted to our next flight in Houston (made it by two minutes) and then arrived in Guatemala City yesterday afternoon. From there it was a four hour car ride to San Pedro and someone got car sick (...okay...it was me.) But we arrived safely around 8:30 p.m. and this sicky poo went straight to bed!

We woke up early to go to a special 6:00 a.m. Mass for Three Kings Day. Much of the language in the service was Spanish blended with ancient Mayan, so I couldn't understand much, but it was lovely! After our brunch we're exploring town. Gotta go- foods here!

-Melissa

Tomorrow Already?

Hey everyone!

My name is Andrew Murphy, and I am traveling to Zambia tomorrow! I'm a junior majoring in Elementary Education at Graceland. I'm excited to be traveling again with the School of Education. Last year for winter term I went to Jamaica and got to work in the Falmouth All Age School which was a rewarding experience.

It seems like when you have the first meeting about taking a trip it seems so far away, but now it seems like just yesterday that we met with Jac and Sherri to talk about what immunizations we'll need, what to pack, and where we'll be visiting. As I'm writing I can't get out of my head that we leave TOMORROW! (I better start packing, huh?)

The number one thing I am looking forward to is being able to talk, play, and teach with the children at the schools we'll be at. The beautiful thing about children is most of the time they have no dispositions on what they should or shouldn't say so they give truly honest responses. The innocence and honesty of children is the best insight into a society's culture.

I'm excited about what is to come in the next three weeks! I hope that I can help in whatever ways are possible, but I'm not naive and realize that I will learn so much more than I will ever be able to give. "Tomorrow! I'll love ya, tomorrow! You're only a day away!"

 Andrew Murphy

Countdown!

Hello everyone!

My name is Kylie Bassett. I am a Studio Art and Visual Communications major in my Junior year at Graceland University. I am one of four excited Enactus students that will be traveling to the Philippines with Outreach International this month for Winter Term.

I was so blessed last January to be able to travel to Zambia, Africa with SIFE and HealthED Connect. This experience was so amazing! I learned and grew so much from that time, and can't wait to see what is in store in the Philippines.

I am so excited to learn from this new culture, and I hope that my presence can be a blessing to the other travelers and the people within the community. Just a few more days!

Kylie Bassett

Zazzin' Up for Zambia!

Hey everyone!

My name is Danica McLain and I will be traveling to Zambia for winter term. We head out Sunday evening, which seems so unreal to me. It's becoming more of a reality every day! I went to Zambia for winter term three years ago when I was working on my first major (Publication Writing and Design,) and never thought I would have the opportunity to go back. After graduating in 2011 and working as a photographer in Des Moines for a while, I decided to take a risk and register for spring semester the day before classes started. I was missing something, and I realized what it was after I had been out of college for a semester- the joy of teaching and caring for children. I had babysat for a wonderful family the last year of college, and we had 'Arts & Crafts with Ms. Danica' often. Suddenly, I didn't have that spunk and wonder of the two little artists around me, and I missed it every day. So, here I am back at Graceland pursuing a Studio Art major with a K-12 teaching endorsement!

Last time, I went as a member of the SIFE (currently Enactus) team. We had several goals, but our largest focus was on teaching caregivers how to be sustainable and support their families. I worked with both caregivers and children, teaching them how to make paper bead jewelry to sell in their towns. In addition to the jewelry project, I had 'art time' with all the children and instructed them to draw their families and what they saw in nature. By the time our village visits were over, I had a whole binder of drawings from children of all ages and skill levels. When we returned home, I created greeting cards using selected drawings. Credit was given to the artists, with their name, age, and town listed on the card. SIFE and HealthEd Connect sold the cards and send the proceeds back to the towns.

This time, I am going as an education student. Yes, I was teaching last time, but this time my focus will be solely on the community schools. I am excited about several things- to help the community teachers as much as I can, teach classes, and interact with the children are what come to mind the most. I can't wait to see how much the schools have changed and to see if I recognize any of the children and if they remember me. I never dreamed I'd be there again, so I am overjoyed to have a new experience there again.

4 more days!

Graceland School of Nursing Jamaica Winter Trip 2013

Hello all!

My name is Chante' Campbell, and I am a nursing student at Graceland's Independence campus.  Every year Graceland takes a trip down to Jamaica.  I am so excited that this year I have the opportunity to go.  It has always been a desire to use my nursing skills on mission trips;  I never expected to be able to meet this desire so soon!

We will be departing early on Sunday, January 6 and arrive back the following Sunday.  It is a fairly large group going this year (The more the merrier!), and we will be spending most of the days working in a clinic, serving the local community.  We will also have opportunities to shop at local markets, go canoeing, and go the beach!  I also hear we have plans to go to a luminous lagoon! It is going to be a memorable experience.

For now, the butterflies in my stomach are surely practicing for a ballet performance   This trip marks many firsts for me.  Not only is it my first trip to Jamaica, it is my first time flying in an airplane!  It is exciting and nerve-wrecking.   But my biggest challenge at the moment is figuring out how everything is going to fit into my carry-on bags. I'm sure, in the end, it'll be "no problem, Mon".  And a few days from now I will say good-bye to the snow on the ground and say hello to shorts and 80 degree weather.

I am unsure about internet access once I am down there, but I will be writing about my adventures as the week goes on and will be able to tell all experiences when I get back.  I ask for your thoughts and prayers for our safety as we travel, but also that we may be a blessing to the people we are going to serve. Pray that we may take with us a heart full of Christ's love and a servant's attitude, and that we may bring back a broadened view of the world and a greater desire to serve.

-Chante'

Preparing for Guatemala

Hello Yellowjackets!

My name is Melissa Shephard and I work in Graceland’s Department of Communications. January 5-20 I will be in San Pedro, Guatemala on the Transcultural Nursing Experience winter term. Although I wasn’t a Nursing major (I graduated from GU back in 2011) I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to accompany our wonderful School of Nursing on this trip.



Guatemala on the map.
Picture courtesy of http://bit.ly/WepdkR



San Pedro sounds like a wonderful, small community. It rests on the shore of Lake Atitlan, a scenic lake formed out of an ancient volcanic basin. The small villages surrounding this lake, like San Pedro, are inhabited by the contemporary descendants of the ancient Maya (which I think is too cool!)

In San Pedro, we will focus on learning as much as we can about the Spanish language and culture. We will be taking one-on-one, four-hour lessons at a local Spanish School (which I’m very excited for and intimidated by) and participate in a number of cultural activities (including salsa dancing and let me tell you this—this girl has absolutely NO rhythm—I’m thinking the locals might get a kick out of watching me try salsa!) We’ll also be visiting local health clinics, a hospital, a medicinal garden and a school for the developmentally disabled, where we’ll make rounds with a cuadaro (natural healer.) During our trip we will be staying with a local family. The family my friend Karlee and I are staying with has a nine year old girl and I’m already excited to meet her!

We fly out early Saturday morning, and I’m nervous about getting everything ready to go (I’ll admit it—I’m a worrier) and concerned about my extremely rusty Spanish skills (sorry Professor Jiménez!), but more than anything I’m so excited. The Spanish language and culture has always fascinated me and I can’t wait to broaden my perspective of the world.

Wish me luck!

-Melissa

Winter Term 2013 Is Coming!

Hello Graceland and Friends!

Winter Term 2013 is quickly approaching and we have some great trips this year for you to read about. This year's blog will feature Graceland students travelling to:
-Nicaragua
-Jamaica (two groups-Education students and Nursing students)
-Guatemala
-Zambia (two groups-Enactus students and Education students)
-Philippines

Be sure to drop by our blog throughout January to read about our students' wonderful experiences! In the meantime, feel free to browse our past posts and read about Winter Term 2012.