Multi-tasking in Mwanza/Pictures

Chicken coop on the property, however, there are no chickens to be found because larger animals have feasted on them.

Delightful kitchen staff preparing to wash dishes.

Meals are prepared over open fires.

Local eatery closed for the day.

Pictures!

Secondary Students

Cow on the school's compound

Sorting beans for preparation

Cooking area at the school

Primary school students

Wish I could share more pictures at this time but downloading just these few has absorbed my computer's battery!
More pictures and text will follow...

The Backbone of Lumala/Morning Star Primary and Secondary School

Pictured left to right the Head of Academics, the pioneer of the school, Administrator Sister Yulitha, and English teacher, Madame 

 

Welcome to Morning Star Secondary School

Morning Star Secondary School and  Lumala Primary School

This is one of the classroom structures on the compound of the school.  The school is continually developing under the guidance of Sister Yulitha who wears many hats at the school.  At present in addition to the above building, there is a primary school building and housing for students and teachers.  However, not all students board, nor do all the teachers reside on the compound.  Trust me, I still trying to figure it all out!

Sister Yulitha has the most peaceful disposition.  She and her staff have made me feel most welcome.  She is continually reminding me of mosquitoes and to “eat.”  Every time I turn around there is a delicious meal awaiting me in my room.

 Today, was the first day of teaching and the students were exceptionally receptive.  I am require to follow a syllabus, but I am encouraged to expand on the varied topics that are presented. Music to my ears, and for those that I have taught, you fully understand how I like to "expand."

A Royal Welcome

After several delays, I arrived in Mwanza at 5pm.  A young man, Masaga, who is affiliated with the St. Francis Xavier Church, greeted me.  The pastor, Father Raymond Manyanga, had made these arrangements for me.  I must say, Masaga at 23 years old was extremely patient and a wonderful host to me.  He has just recently completed his studies in business at the University.  He was born in Mwanza and is exceptionally proud of his country.

We traveled to meet father Ray who was equally as gracious.  From the church Father Ray and Masaga escorted to the school that I will be living at and teaching.  Enroute to the school the sun was setting and it quickly got dark, but the roads were heavily populated with people in cars, others were walking, riding motor scooters, and or bicycles.  The majority of the roads are in need of repair because they are dirt and heavily rutted out.

We  “rocked and rolled” up to the school and were greeted with the students of the school who had been waiting since noon for my arrival.  It was truly a royal welcome, and I was overwhelmed with their warmth and kindness. Unfortunately, my camera was still in my luggage, but memory of that night and their presentation will have a lasting imprint.  I felt honored by their enthusiastic singing and dance.

Dance Lessons Anyone?

Once again, special thanks to Debra Black for her magical photos.  I didn't post the other photos in order to protect the "innocence," but whew did we have fun!  Words cannot express my deep appreciation to both Debra Black and Debbie Bagnell for throwing a fabulous "send-off" party fueled with family and friends.  To say the least, I was overwhelmed and honored by all who attended and others who sent their best wishes.  The basket of donations was most appreciated, and it will certainly go to a special project that will be designed during my mission.  Keep the rhythm! 

Congratulations to My Go to Girl!

Pictured left to right: Danielle Gallo, Brian Rooney, Meghan Shield, Paul Shield, Maryjane Gallo, Guy Gallo, Charlie Rooney, and Collette Gallo

My "Go to Girl" Meghan.

 On Saturday, October 1, the Rooney, Shield, and Gallo  family along with our friends celebrated the wedding of my daughter, Meghan to Paul Shield.  It was a fantastic day of good fortune, love, and dancing.  It was lovely to have us all together to witness the love that Meghan and Paul share together.

My heart continually beats for all of you no matter where I am.