New Volunteers

I spent the morning being lazy. As I knew so many people were coming today I took time to enjoy the quiet. I played Skip Bo, went online, and then as some volunteers began to trickle in, I took about 5 of them on a walk to Rondebosch to show them the area. We came back in time for some lunch and then I relaxed in my room again before heading with Wonga and Israel to the airport to pick up the largest group of volunteers, 12 of them on one flight, the same Delta flight I came in on. It has been a whirlwind introducing myself so many times and being tour guide. I've enjoyed it immensely as it shows how far I've come in the past 11 weeks. I remember feeling overwhelmed and a bit lost in the crowd when I came so I've tried my best to ask people who look confused if they want help. I unfortunately will not get to know these volunteers as well as I would like to so the best I can do is be available to answer every question to tell them where to find the answer. I remember thinking after a week or so of being here that eventually I'll be the knowledgeable one helping new volunteers. And here I am.

I have to remember to slow down and take everything in. I need to memorize the drive to Scalabrini, memorize faces. I want to engrave Cape Town and South Africa in my memories so it will always be there. I need to take pictures of everything and me with everyone. I need find pictures of myself to print off and give to the staff. And throughout it all, I have to try not to cry. I wish I did not have to say goodbye. My heart already aches, the tears already well up in my eyes. I am so attached to Linda, Bongi, and Nolundi that I can't imagine saying goodbye. I do not even know how to form the words. I did not intend to be so close with the staff but it happened and I will be forever greatful.

Tomorrow I think I will go for that massage and start taking pictures of the staff members with me so that I can print out pictures to give to them of us. I will be working at Scalabrini in the mornings all week and I plan on working at Scalabrini in the afternoons Monday – Wednesday (if there is work). Thursday I'll go to Rondebosch to print photos for the staff and the homebase (as well as buy tissues) and then Friday afternoon I'll pack. Saturday I'll try to relax and talk with the staff. I hope to get each one on video so I can hear their voice whenever I miss them.

Cheers