hard at work...

I am sorry that it has been a few days, life happening very fast here.  On Wednesday I started my work with the girls living in the Street Aid House of Refuge.  There are 15 of them.  While here I will see them 5 times for workshops.  The goal is to dream, be build confidence and to empower these new and expecting mothers.

I have to say that I am very entertained by them.  3 of the girls speak English. The common language for everyone (except me of course) is Twi.  Working with a translator has been challenging.  It took a little time to get used to the pace but after two days of working together we are finding our way.

We have been gathering on a patio area...lots of shade and a breeze...a God send for sure.

The activities have been big fun.  I had to do some adjusting with the language barrier, but most activities have worked very well.  

Playing together is a huge part of each of the sessions.  There are lots of giggles.

Rose (in the yellow skirt-above) is my staff support.  She has been working with S. Aid for 11 years. 

 This is Rafia...she was a hard nut to crack...by end of day she had warmed up considerably.  

I am enjoying the girls very much.  Friday is African wear day for S. Aid staff.  I am sporting a new shirt purchased earlier in the week.

 This is Agnes (Aggie).  She has a 5 month old daughter.  I like her very much.  I wish that I spoke Twi. I would love to be able to sit and chat.  A wonderful spirit this one!

 elephants....

 I tapped into my Link Crew training and did an activity called Life Story.  The girls were asked a series of questions and asked to draw their responses.  Favorite food, a favorite gift received and identifying someone they admire or look up too were some of the questions.

 hard at work....

 Rose jumps in too (above)...and so does Aggie's little one (below)...

 this is Amama...a funny funny girl...

 sharing our life story pictures....

 time for a little break...they LOVED foot foot...a game from my Covenant Players days...

 back to work...with drawing working the best for communicating, we jump back in...on one half of the paper they are drawing pictures of their dreams...the dreams they have for themselves...on the other half their hopes and dreams for their children....

many of the girls aspire to be hair dressers and dress makers...their hopes fro their children included teachers, nurses, police women, soldiers and doctors...the challenge for next week will be to help them dream for themselves in the way they dream for their children.

 another group photo...