team 4: a slow but steady start

We are kind of in “scramble” mode here at SMK, trying to re-work our projects and schedules since five of our team members have not yet arrived. We had a pow-wow with the older kids (who are going to be assisting us with our classes) and worked out a plan that will have to do for now. (Not only are the team members stranded in London; so are the duffel bags that are filled with supplies for our projects!)

While the children are all disappointed that things have not shifted into full swing, they are happy with the limited offerings we have to share. Since Bobbi and Suzanne both plan to teach yoga, and they are both here (yay!) yoga will begin this morning. Bobbi is going to start with a class for the instructors (a few secondary school-aged kids who lead the classes during the rest of the year.) Suzanne will hold a class for beginners. Only 12 mats are left from last year; seven more are in stranded bags. Until they arrive, class size will be small.

We have also begun the process of making the banana fiber dolls. This year we are going to add some new shapes to the mix. As in the past, we will bring the dolls back to Kansas City and distribute them to local artists to complete the collaboration. They will then be sold at our annual fundraiser in June. If you didn’t have a chance to see these dolls last year, check the blog archive for Dolls and the CTT Friendraiser/Fundraiser. These works of art were so beautiful and helped us raise a lot of money for the very children who helped make them.

A Kansas City architecture from, Summit Architecture, has spent a great deal of time and energy making drawings of the grounds of SMK. Charmalee Gunaratne, in particular, has pored over photos of the place and has asked a lot of questions. We were also able to obtain some measurements from Rosemary and Joseph, the SMK Directors. All of the measurements and placements of the different buildings need to be confirmed. I brought the drawings with me, and during our “emergency” meeting yesterday I asked if any of the older children would be interested in working on this project. Hands shot up! Three boys (Billy, Nelson and Willy) were very excited to be a part of this. Turns out they all have an interest in technical drawing, drafting and architecture. This is perfect for them! They immediately went into Kajjansi to make three sets of copies of the drawings and to purchase a very long (160 ft.) tape measure. They will now take on the task of checking Charmalee’s work very carefully to make sure the numbers and placements are all correct. At that point, Summit Architecture will begin to consider ideas for remodeling or designing something new for the orphanage! Thank you, Charmalee Gunaratne and Mary Deacy!

I love these long distance collaborations.

I love the fact that the kids here feel empowered by these projects.

This afternoon we will be replacing worn out and soiled mattresses and blankets (about half) and installing new mosquito nets over every bed.

Enjoy a few photos from yesterday, and please keep your fingers crossed that Heathrow Airport lets our team members go!!