November 1, 2007

Dear Family and Friends,

I cannot believe the time has come to say goodbye to the friends I have made in South Africa this past 6 months. It feels like I am leaving family behind, living in the valley with the local Zulu people has been one the most rewarding experience I have ever had. I spent 99% of my time here with Zulu people, I believe I understand the words “color blind” at a much deeper level; I truly don’t see myself as any color. These people have graciously accepted me as one of their own. I am already looking forward to returning next July.

The last two weeks have been very busy tying up loose ends. I spent an overnight at the orphanage saying goodbye to my sweet babies, (they are almost grown up). Visited Phila and brought food to his family, when he sees me he whispers “Mama Mauween”, my heart melts each time I hear those words. As you will see in the picture he is healthy and happy.

The Gogos (grandmothers) in my community that received the sewing machines, material, bibles and eye glasses last week were so excited that they started to dance around the room and sing praises to God!

Andre and Dave, the box of medicine from London arrived this week, it was delivered to a volunteer clinic in the valley that treats needy families and babies, and they were so appreciative. Sandra, the same group runs a creche for babies; they received some of your beautiful line of baby clothes, and agreed to send pictures later of the babies wearing them.

This past week was party time for the after school program, everyone (100 children) received a bag of goodies and a small gift. We served punch and cookies to people in the community - Whew!!!! A lot of people came by to see what we have been doing with the children. Each class sang a song or recited a poem in English. They were so proud of themselves and kept looking at me for approval. Of course I was grinning from ear to ear! I am so proud of them! This program will continue while I am gone.

Please keep Our Journey in your thoughts during the upcoming holidays and forward this e-mail on to your mailing list, Our Journey needs to raise funds for these programs to continue. When I return home to the states I will update my South Africa Power Point Presentation and take it on the road starting January 2008, please let us know if you would like us to visit your church or group. Check out our web site www.ourjourneyinc.org

Much love,
Maureen

To contribute to this work, please send a tax deductible donation to:

Our Journey, Inc.
Fred Mills, CPA, LLC
Route 4, Box 3133
Townsend, Georgia 31331

  www.ourjourneyinc.org