CFSIA 2008: February 2008

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Maasai Homestay

Wow, our homestay was amazing - simly put. Jaime and I stayed with Mama Tajiri. Her husband had given her another anme, Naalakuina, and she immediately adopted Jaime and me as her additional children. Our translator and friend for the stay was Nemama, a young woman who wants to become a doctor and travel the world.

Jaime and I tried to teach duck duck goose to the children, and while the actual game itself didn't go so well, everyone (us included!) had a wonderful time laughing and running around. Because the rain had not been so good, it took a while for the cattle and goats to come back to the boma, but once they did, we were given the chance to try and milk the cattle and goats. It took a bit of effort, but Jaime and I both helped out a little bit :)

Welcoming wazungu

Normally, the CFSIA arranges for us to do a home stay with the Maasau in Kenya. However, since we were not going to Kenya, the amazing coordinators for the program found partnership in Tanzania that let partake in the amazing experience of living (albeit for on evening and morning) with a Maasai family for one day. Upon our arrival, we were greeted with every family that was involved with this project, and it was quite a site. The children were in their formal dress with red ochre painted on their faces, and the women and men were dressed in their beautiful traditional garb. We were treated to dancing by everybody while we were there, and we tired to partake in them, though I must say the guys from CFSIA could not jump as high as the Maasai!

I must say that this was one of the most warm welcomes we received. The kindness and hospitality was amazing, and something I know we will always remember.

Friday, February 22, 2008

Tarangire National Park

First up is Johnson, one of our fearless drivers who could spot animals hidden in the grass and dodge the crazy bus drivers passing mutatus around blind corners. Tarangire National Park was remarkably different scenery- wise from the parks we had been to previously. The park had huge baobob trees all over the place.