Loads to update you on!!

I left for the most fantastic two weeks of my life on October 30th. I flew to Durban, and started my Cape tour with all the other exchange students in South Africa. I met students from all over the world. Students from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland, and USA. I get emotional when I write about this trip- I got some of the best and worst news of my life in a period of two weeks.
We started the tour on Saturday, October 31st. We met in Durban and traveled to Ficksburg. We stayed in the homes of Rotarians in the Ficksburg Rotary Club. It was very kind of them to let us all crash in their homes! But that’s how rotary works, there are kind people willing to help whenever, wherever, and with whatever they can. It’s so great! :)
Then we continued on our journey to Cape Town. Our next stop was Oudsthoorn. We stayed in Oudsthoorn and Visited Cango Caves, Cango Wildlife Ranch, and Cango Ostrich Farm. Cango Caves was beautiful! We went on a tour deeper and deeper into the caves... These caves were unique because there was not an opening at the end- only the beginning. So as we hiked, crawled, and seriously squished through these tiny spaces- the humidity got higher and higher. It eventually got to 95%! I wouldn’t choose to do that tour again... but it was cool to do once! The wildlife ranch was basically like a zoo... After seeing animals in their natural habitat in Kruger... I’m not too crazy about zoos anymore. The animals look sad... I did get the opportunity to pet and play with a young cheetah cub- which was awesome! The fur is wiry and the sweet animal was purring the whole time! Very cool… can we get one Mom?!?! :) Last but not least... The ostrich farm... OH BOY! I held a baby ostrich, kissed a grown up ostrich, and RODE AN OSTRICH!! When I kissed the thing... It took a nice chunk out of my upper lip (just my luck)... Leaving me with a bit of a bloody mess... Literally. I would not recommend riding an ostrich. It was quite gross. I made the mistake to wear shorts... So as I got off of the animal I had really funky sticky white and light brown ostrich goo on my bare legs… not so enjoyable!!! Hahaa!! Even though I make this sound a bit negative- I don’t mean it to be at all! I came on this adventure to do everything I could. And I have so far. No looking back- and do everything I can!! I’m doing it. Some things are just a bit nicer than others… :)
The next day, we arrived in Cape Town! It is absolutely gorgeous. There is a very nice relaxed vibe in Cape Town. I enjoyed it very much! In Cape Town we went to Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Cape Point, Aquarium, and the Greenmarket Square. I know that I have to come back to Cape Town someday to go up Table Mountain again. We went up and all we could see was fog. It was really too bad, but I’ll see the proper view sometime in the future.
Just before we left Cape Town I got some terrible news from home. I was sitting on my bed in Flora Bay Resort in Hout Bay listening to the ocean crashing against the rocks just below my room. I called home to tell my parents about Table Mountain and Cape Point. I was so excited to hear their voices. The moment I heard my dad on the phone- I knew something was wrong. My Dad told me that my Auntie Jill was sick. She had gotten sick very fast and was in hospital. I had no idea how serious this was or what state she was in... But I knew it wasn’t good. I was shocked. I actually don’t have words for how I felt. I felt like I had so many unanswered questions… and my parents just wanted to get off of the phone. After I hung up, I phoned my brother Glenn. He told me more of the details. I’m not sure if that was good or bad. I found out from him that Jill was unconscious and fighting for her life. I felt like I got the wind knocked out of me. This news was terrible. My favorite aunt. The one who was always there for me... I couldn’t be there for her. It absolutely wrenched my heart. After I got this news- I was one huge puddle of tears. God was and is in control- He put the right people by my side and me and my dear friend Amanda from Brazil prayed and prayed. That’s all we could do.
The next day we were traveling out of Cape Town. We stayed a night in Hartenbos in Mossel Bay. Then the following morning we traveled to Jeffery’s Bay. On the way we stopped to visit Monkey land and Birds of Eden. We also got to make a quick stop at Storms River which is where the world’s highest bungee jumping bridge is. Sadly, we weren’t allowed to jump but we did get a chance to view others jumping…I know most of us were really bleak about that…
We stayed in Jeffery’s bay for two nights. These were my last two nights because I got off of the tour in Grahamstown (where I live). While we were in J-Bay; we shopped, and surfed, and shopped some more. It was perfect. I don’t want to brag… but not only did I find amazing bargains on clothes... but I also was voted by the surfing instructor as the best female surfer!! I don’t really know why... because I fell and fell and fell some more... but I always got back up with a smile on my face! I managed to get up onto my board twice. :)
Then reality slapped me hard in the face that night with another phone call home. Jill was really not well. I was so angry that my parents kept sugar coating the situation but not I understand that they were just trying to stay positive. I was not aware of how bad things were. It was difficult for me to imagine my lovely Auntie very sick in hospital.
After J-Bay we went to the African Music Center in G-Town. After that I had to say goodbye’s and go home. It was really swak having to say goodbye. :’(
It is amazing how close I got to so many kids in a period of two weeks. You all have such a huge thing in common and you just click together right away. The relationships are so special. I will remember each and every one of those awesome kids for a very long time.
I was sad to leave tour and feared the future for Jill. When I got back to the Benyon’s I started unpacking and crying. I finally felt “at home” and comfortable… so I could let out all my worries and stressors... Shame, now that I think about it; I don’t know what I’d have done without them. They are very special people. With me through the happy and the sad, and always there for support.
About 3 hours after I arrived home the phone rang. I was sitting quiet in my room and over heard Rob say, “Hello Janey”. My heart sank right into my tummy. I knew this was not going to be a happy phone call. Rob knocked on my door, handed me the phone, and waited by my bed as my mom told me the news that Jill had passed away. I just remember repeating the word no. No no no no no. I have never experienced such a deep pain before. Rob was right there for support. To this day I can’t get my head around the fact that she is no longer alive. It’s so crazy and such a terrible thing. It leaves me speechless with tears in my eyes.
I stayed in South Africa and I know Jill would’ve been angry if I went home. I wasn’t really given the option by my parents to go or stay. Everyone felt so strongly that I must stay, so it just kind of worked out. I don’t believe I was in the right frame of mind to make a decision like that. It was better that they made it. Now I’m glad I’m still here. I’m finishing out this year in memory of one of my most favorite people. I do feel guilty for not being there, I’m sad I couldn’t say goodbye. But I’m also lucky to be one of the only people in the family to have such a positive image of Jill left as a memory. I’m sorry- I can’t bring myself to type anything more about this...

As the days went by, I wrote my thoughts down, communicated home regularly, and just tried to grasp everything that happened. I was surrounded by happiness, and that gets contagious. So I have good days and bad, but most are good. I’ve had many happy times and during all of those times I think of Jill. I’m able to enjoy my year knowing she is happy and in a good place. I will deal with more grieving when I’m home and don’t see her. I can’t think about that right now..
My December was awesome! The first weekend.. Dec. 5th-6th there was an outbound/inbound rotary youth exchange orientation. It was so exciting to meet all the girls (oddly they were all female) that were going to be exchange students in 2010! They were all so nervous and excited, and it was very interesting to be one the other end of things. Knowing what they were feeling and giving them advice. It was awesome.
Then December 12th-15th, Rob, Kate, Jessica, Paula, and I went to Cape St. Francis to soak up some sun! It was a great little holiday with nice weather and fun boogie boarding!! I even got a few lemons to squeeze into my hair to get it to go blond... Now Rob won’t stop giving me crap!! Every time he sees me he greets me with a “Your hair is really getting blond...” or some odd little remark... haha! It did work well though!
Then, right after we got home, Rob and Kate went away to Thailand for a week! The girls and I stayed with David and Ilva Benyon. (Rob’s parents) We got to swim in the Kingswood (a nice private school in Grahamstown) pool and have lots of giggles and good times with them. They are very sweet people.
It was the day before Christmas Eve when Rob and Kate got home. To me, it did not feel like Christmas at all at first. As the holiday progressed, it just kept on getting more and more special. We had some of Rob’s family over for Christmas Eve dinner and it puts a warm feeling through my body just telling you about it! I chose to make this holiday enjoyable. To not think about the negative and focus on the family and friends that I had with me at the time. I loved my South African Christmas. I did it, survived it… but I do have to admit that American’s do have a much more festive Christmas season. That night Jessica, Paula, and I had a “sleepover” in Jess’ room! Haha it was so cute. The girls were very giddy and super excited for Father Christmas to come. We all woke up at 5am to rip open gifts. It was so nice to have such excited girls to be with!! Then later that morning after I went back to bed and woke up for the second time... We all headed to Rob’s brother Grant’s beach house for a nice Christmas lunch.

I hope everyone is well...
Sending lots of love from sunny South Africa!
Alison

big oops..

Backing up all the way to October…
I made a big mistake- felt like (at the time) the biggest of my life. I tried to take a top from a store. I’ve never done it before; I don’t know why I did it. It was completely idiotic! It was humiliating, embarrassing, and so scary. I had to go through a Sunday afternoon and evening in a police station, and without God on my side I wouldn’t be in South Africa today. As most of you know, I am surrounded by love and support here. It was the worst time ever- waiting for the decision to be made if I was going to be sent home, or be able to finish my year. I can’t even put into words how amazing my rotary club, my parents, my host parents, my friends—everyone was just so supportive. I made an impression on all these special people, and when I needed them most, they were all right behind me. God is so amazing. He puts special people in our lives for very specific reasons. I can’t thank my rotary club enough for backing me and fighting to keep me here. I love these people.
So, I made a huge mistake. I’m not perfect. But I think what is most important right now is proving that what my rotary club did for me was valid. I need to be me, and show how I can rise above the mistake I made.
I’m sorry that I put stress on everyone. This experience has been a dream of my since I was in 8th grade, and I refuse to let a dumb thing that I did compromise my whole year. I have made a decision to go up from here.
In the middle of this big mess, I turned 17. The Benyon’s really made my birthday special. And I feel terrible because I was a poor sport on my birthday. I didn’t feel like I deserved to have fun and I was probably the worst company ever. I really didn’t want any attention, but they were all so sweet and did so many special things for me. They are amazing people.
Also, everyone back home- thanks so so much for all the wonderful birthday cards!! They are so special to me. I appreciate your thoughtfulness. It means a lot!
Since this has all settled lots has been happening..

How Crazy is it that October is Ending?!

October 8, 2009
I cant believe it’s already October.
Let’s see.. Lately I’ve been busy with school and rotary. The Benyon’s home is quite hectic!! I now have two little sisters. Jessica who is 11 and in gr.5 and Paula who is 8 and in gr.3! They are very active, adorable, and energetic little girls! It’s a very upbeat household and I’m participating in so many fun runs. Who knew I would run for fun?! Rob says that we know how the run part goes.. We just haven’t found out the fun part yet! Haha it’s so true. Rob and Kate are great. Both of their personalities balance each other out so well! Rob is the daredevil, spur the moment adrenaline junkie. Kate is a great mom, and keeps everyone on time and organized. Rob lectures at Rhodes University. He is a dorm supervisor/counselor. They live on campus in a flat below the dorm. It’s quite cool. From time to time, he gets “knocks” on the door connecting the house to the hallway from students who need help or have questions. His job really never stops! Kate also works on campus.. I’m not too sure what she does. It’s something with the science field. She also runs a center that has many different bookings on the campus-just behind the res where we all live. The place is VERY safe. So to all of you who were instantly worried-please don’t be!
On Saturday October 3rd, I went on a 15k hike with The Roodt Family-Shelly,Gert,Murray,Sarah and Emily. They are also res. supervisors and live just down the hill from the Benyon’s. They have three kids. Their son Murray is 17, Daughter Sarah is 15 , and youngest daughter Emily who is 8. It was a long but nice hike. (WHO KNEW I WOULD HIKE!?!?) I’ve really been saying yes to everything I can do. When you give new things a try, you learn more about yourself. I would never hike at home. But I actually enjoy hiking! It’s so great to do everything and meet new people! Then after the hike, we went to one of their friends homes.. with a pool.. swam, had a braii(barbeque), and enjoyed the beautiful sunny day.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009…I haven’t written in a long time! Lots has happened, let me fill you all in!
The school week of October 5th- 9th was just another week. One funny thing is that I find myself spelling like they do here. I spelled organize like organise(and didn’t even realize it until a while after I wrote it!). In history class, we had a big project due about a South African country. In the paper, when explaining how big this South African country was, I said it was about 3 times the size of Pennsylvania. I lost points because to my teacher, it was not a good reference. Haha I just laughed because to me it seems like a great way to describe how big the country is!! Also, I was announced “Class Captain”! Haha the girls in my homeroom class voted for me to be class captain for a term. All this really means is that I do attendance every morning. Sometimes it’s a problem because I’m still learning all the new names… but it was sweet of them to appoint me! (I think they thought it was really funny to make the American do attendance.. but I’m still not quite sure!) :)
On Thursday, October 8th I started interact. It’s a spinoff of rotary. It’s a youth service club in schools. You do things through school to better the community, or just help out a little. The interact club I joined is through VGHS(my highschool), and we go to VP(Victoria Primary) which is right next door to VGHS, and we play with the little girls who don’t have rides to go home right after school. The little girls were quite wild!! At one point, I had four first graders hanging from every side of me, with one on my back and one in each hand. That’s seven crazy little girls screaming and laughing… it was frustrating but way too cute all at the same time. They call me their “school mommy”. (I guess they have lots of school mommies, or that’s what the fifth graders said!) The little girls ask me if I know celebrities, and I say yes. Their eyes get huge,they get so excited.. And then I tell the truth. Haha!!
On Friday October 9th, I was unable to go to youth.. it was a very hectic evening in the Benyon home. When I tell you this story please don’t freak out!!
On Friday evening around 6:20 (18:20) Rob went for a long run-and was still running. Kate was taking a quick nap before going to eat at a friend’s home, and the girls and I were playing in Paula’s room. Jessica had a friend over named Kaylee. As Kaylee walked out of Paula’s room, out of the corner of her eye she saw a man walking out of our home. At first I didn’t believe her and we were all puzzled. We realized Kate’s handbag was missing. Then, I told Jess to wake up her mom as I sprinted out of the house to see if there was a man running away. As I ran to the top of the hill (on campus) I saw a man running up the hill past the dining hall. Then I quickly ran back home. Kate was awake and phoning campus security. Luckily, I could tell Kate what this man was wearing so they could go look for him. In the end, the man was no so clever. He ran up the hill, and found that everything was fenced off. Then he ran down a different direction, which Kate and the security men all predicted. So, they caught him, Kate got her handbag back and everyone is safe. It was quite the evening for everyone. The girls and I had some tea, watched Mama Mia, and went to bed. We are so blessed that nobody was hurt, and the man was caught. All at the same time I had a terrible headache, and want not feeling well at all.
Then, on Saturday Morning I was invited to go zip lining with the Roodt Family. They invited me along, so we all went! It is a course about a half hour from Grahamstown with 6 different cables you zip line across. It’s a huge valley and the zip lines are diagonally set so you go from one to the other. You get all harnessed in, sign your life away, put on a helmet, get attached to the cable… and GO!!! Haha it was lots of fun. You control your own speed. Murray and I both agreed that it still felt too safe… :) After our morning of excitement, we then went to port Alfred to visit a friend of Shelly an d Gert’s. we spent the afternoon in Port Alfred…and as the day went on, I got sicker and sicker. By the car ride home I was burning up and shivering at the same time. I had a headache that would not subside, and when I got home, walked through the door immediately started to cry. Rob and Kate jumped up to help me; I took a headache pill and tried to sleep. I didn’t get any sleep. I knew I needed a chiropractor. I could feel where I needed to be adjusted. God works in wonderful ways, as it turns out, Rob’s uncle is a chiropractor! On Sunday, Kate took me to the doctor. I’ve never really been to that kind of doctor before. He was concerned that I could have malaria because I had just been in Kruger Park. He took my blood. I was SO scared…It really made me homesick. Luckily, I was with the Benyon’s. They did anything and everything they possibly could to make me comfortable. They are so kind, caring, and loving. I couldn’t ask for a better family to be living with. By Monday night, I was feeling a lot better! So I then went to school on Tuesday.
I almost forgot to tell you…I saw a chiropractor!! I’m not going to lie, it was so so so weird! Growing up with only one set of hands adjusting me( and occasionally the odd intern) is something I really take for granted. I would complain and moan every time my dad did any little thing that was a bit uncomfortable. When I saw a new chiropractor, he was not my dad so it was odd not to squeal or complain...as terrible as that sounds!! He didn’t look, feel, sound, or do anything like my dad. My dad is good at what he does. Sorry I could go on and on.. Long story short, it was weird. But the adjustment was just as nice after. It felt so good. And after, it really made me homesick. The REALLY crazy thing was that when I was finished with my adjustment, in the waiting room waiting for my ride… the song Butterfly Kisses was playing on the radio. My dad and I have been singing that song for as long as I can remember. I couldn’t help but cry. I miss his adjustments, his hugs, and his advice.. I miss that old man of mine! Love you tons Dad!
Tuesday and Wednesday night were filled with school activities. Graeme, our brother school, had their annual ceremony called prize giving on Tuesday night. Then VG had their prize giving ceremony on Wednesday night. It’s a special way to honor all the academic, sport, and any other types of achievements a student has accomplished throughout the year.
**Side note: At prize giving, we are required to dress in formal school uniform. (Which is the same uniform, except we need to be wearing black tights instead of white short socks.) It was such a mission for me to find black tights!! Kate and I were busy driving all around town, dropping and fetching the girls from their crazy busy afterschool activities.. In-between dropping and fetching we went to look for some black tights. I was unaware that “Blackmail” was different than “Black”. I’m no stocking guru. Haha!! We had such a hectic afternoon; all we could do when we got home was laugh! Kate and I had a pretty silly exhausted giggle after that busy afternoon. Then, we all went to the dining hall for dinner. I lost track of time, and when we got back home again, I had about ten minutes to be ready and at the monument for Graeme’s prize giving. So, I threw on my uniform, grabbed my tights and shoes and shot out the door with Rob. It was the most hilarious thing ever.. Putting stockings on while your host dad drives you to where you need to be. Luckily, Rob and I have a very close relationship and we made it in time-- it was oh so hilarious!! Rob and I had such a good laugh!
On Thursday October 15th, there was a fun run/walk for the local Afrikaans school. It was held to do a bit of fundraising for the school. VG grade 11’s decided to participate in this.. And we all got together, and dressed super funky in bright colors! Throughout the whole walk we all chanted, cheered, sang, danced and just had a really fun time representing our school and bonding as a grade! These girls are so special to me. I’ve made many amazing friends that I’m so thankful for.
I'm still loving the Benyon house. It's so great here! It is impossible for me to describe how amazing this family is. I honestly don't have words. I love my little sisters to pieces. Sometimes they drive me nuts (and I'm sure I also drive them nuts) but we always end up getting along. It's great having them around. Rob and Kate are so so great! Haha They really are though- Always ready to help, listen , offer assistance- Whatever I need whenever I need it. They are just the type of people that will bend over backwards to help in any way. I am so blessed. It brings tears to my eyes.
Then Friday the 16th was my mark for being here in SA for 3 months. I’ve had an amazing three months, the best in my life. I have met loving, kind, caring, and compassionate people. Everyone has a special place in my heart. I thank God every day that I wake up in this amazing place surrounded with love and comfort. Strangers have turned into family. I’m so blessed. It’s a home away from home.
Love you all,
Alison
p.s. I hope everyone enjoys these entries.. Please let me know what you think, feedback is always nice.

My Holiday and a New Home!

Thursday October 1, 2009

WOW! I just got home from the most outrageous holiday ever. I went to Kruger National park with Rohan, Vivian, and Jurgen Stroebel. (Rohan is a Rotarian) It was so so cool. For those of you that don’t know, Kruger is a HUGE game park full of wild African animals… I can’t believe what I saw… We saw the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo) just about every day we went for a ride. Not only did we see the bug animals, but we also saw giraffes, zebras, CHEETAHS, hippos, etc… and countless BEATUIFUL birds!! I mean, we saw so many giraffes and zebras, that by the end of the week we didn’t even stop the car to see them… we just drove by them like you drive by corn fields! It was a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and could not have been possible without the generosity of the Stroebel Family. They were so kind and great to be with for the week. (They all also speak Afrikaans as their first language… so it was cool to hear the language and get a taste of a new culture)

After arriving back in Grahamstown after a long day of driving, I made a HUGE move to the Benyon’s home! My “small” suitcases were waiting for me to unpack into my new room when I walked through the door. I have stayed with the Benyon’s overnight a few times, but I’m finally moving in! I will be here all of October, November, and December. I’m looking forward to this stay! I now have two little sisters Jessica- 11 and Paula-7. It will be a fun, hectic, crazy, loving, memory-making 3 months! :)

Rob recently got back from a trip overseas. He went to Texas for a business thing.. He asked me to give him a list of things to purchase from home. On my list were gushers, reeses peanut butter cups, twizzlers, and laffy taffy. He managed to buy all of the candy, and in HUGE amounts! Haha (he thought you bought gushers by the single package! So we have boxes, and bags of American candy that nobody in the family is really crazy about!) Everyone tried the candy (they say “sweets” here) and they weren’t too nuts about any of it! It was fun to share a little something from home with them.

As you can see… I’m busy and many exciting things are happening! But even though all these happy things are happening… I desperately wish I could share them with my family, Cari, and Jen. I’m sitting here typing.. telling you all about how great it is here and for some reason tears keep running down my cheeks. I’m missing a good laugh with my girls, a deep conversation about some outrageous topic with my dad, and a sweet hug from my little momma. I think every time I move to a new home is when I feel the most homesick. The realization of being so far from home sinks in deep and gets to me. **Don’t get me wrong, it has NOTHING to do with the people I stay with. They have all been SO sweet and caring.** It’s just me… Growing and changing trying to deal with all the odd emotions and small battles on my own. I know in my heart this was the path God wants me to take, and I believe he’s just keeping me in check. Home really isn’t so bad after all.

Sending Lots of Love-

Alison

Here’s the latest and greatest…

Oh my goodness gracious… It’s been a while since I’ve last updated you guys! I’ve been very busy with school, friends, and rotary activities!
I’m going to just give you some highlights of the last few weeks… (I don’t have any lowlights!!)
On Friday, Aug.28th I went to Nicole Upfold’s 17th birthday party... 80’s themed! It was a lot of fun!! Then the next day, Saturday, (HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDY!) I ran /walked in my very first “fun run”! haha it was a run for the SBCA and hosted by Rhodes University. It was 4k’s... I went with the Benyons. After the run we just hung out! It was a lot of fun!! I think Rob is going to try to make me a runner… anyone who knows me will know he’s got his work cut out for him. I’m not the most graceful runner… haha!!
Then the following morning, The Full Gospel Church had a Braille bible Sunday. They had invited the community to church to hear the blind play music, and read from the Braille bible. It was a really awesome thing to see how talented the blind people are!! They sounded so good! Also, Pauline, my current host mom, manages an organization that helps provide services, food, job, and care for the poor. It’s called GADRA. They have a special blind program and she helped organize all the activities with the band at church.
The next week was a typical week at VG. I’m making good friends and enjoying it so so much!! Class for me mainly consists of writing notes to my friends, giggling, goofing around…and… oh yeah-listening to the teacher! :) I’m a good kid though- no worries!! I’m trying to learn and I’m amazed at the differences and similarities of schooling between the US and South Africa. It’s so cool to have a broad perspective!
You have to understand, at school the arts, drama, and music is amazing. These girls can bring it! (As my dad would say) They are so talented. So on Thursday, Sep. 3rd, we had house plays in the evening. (All the girls are divided into a house kind of like Harry Potter) it’s a huge drama competition between the houses. The girls write the script and perform their plays. It was so fun to go and watch!! My house didn’t win... But all the plays were great!
Then, on Friday Sept. 4th I attended youth club. It’s always a good time of great friends and fellowship. I look forward to Friday nights!
Saturday…
Even though I’m growing, changing, and living across the world... I still sometimes need a Saturday to clean my room. :) I spent the whole morning cleaning an organizing. I also have been jogging... I am in desperate need for some sort of active activity! I’m SO desperate that I’m jogging. Haha!! There are many hills in Grahamstown so it’s a nice work out.
After all of this… I went to Hannah Steven’s house. She’s a good friend from school and she invited me over for the night! It was a lot of fun. She’s awesome! We walked to town, got some food, and rented two of the worst movies I’ve seen in a long long time. Haha it couldn’t have been more perfect! It was great. :)
After a very late but fun night on Sunday I visited Rohan Strobble’s (sp?!) home. He is a Rotarian and has a son my age named Jurgen. They live about 20minutes out of town, on a big beautiful farm. They have a lovely home and many silly dogs. Hey mom- the dogs know Afrikaans!! Impressive huh?! I was amazed! :) They have also invited me to go to Kruger National park with them over the September holiday (sep.22nd -oct.4th) I’m VERY KEEN!!! (Keen=happy, excited It was a fun day, and I was so happy that we had a braii for lunch, which means we ate MEAT!! I’m currently living with vegetarians. It was a nice day, and Kruger will be a blast! :)
On Monday, Sep. 10th I was thinking of my irreplaceable best friend. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARISSA!! Love you and miss you. <3
This week was crazy. I had a history essay due Wednesday, a history test Thursday, an LO project due Tuesday, math homework every night, sport after school, and rotary events in the evenings! OHHH boy!! It’s hard for me to balance rotary and school...having a little trouble with that but trying not to stress because I know it’s not worth it! I had rotary on Monday evening. I love rotary meetings! They are so much like family it’s awesome. :) Then on Wednesday I had dinner with the Benyons. It was great to see them, but their cats really got to me. I was an exploding mess… and it made me feel so sick. Then, on Thursday morning (Sept. 10th) I was told by les (my current host dad) that I did not look so good. Well I didn’t feel good either. I was tired and had a huge headache. I ended up coming home early from school and sleeping to rest up for a hectic evening… Thursday evening Rob took me with him to Port Alfred to meet up with Denise and we brought her back to Grahamstown to spend the weekend and Monday at my school!
This Friday, the 11th I attended the formal rotary fundraiser-The Citizen of the Year. It was so much fun! I went with Denise, and also brought Jurgen! It was a really fun night of dressing up and dancing. I love all the Rotarians and I feel like they are my family! They are the best! And they can dance!! Haha we got home Friday night (or Saturday morning) around 1:30 a.m. It was a long night!
The following Saturday, Denise and I had to wake up around 6:30a.m. To get to Queenstown by 10:00a.m. Debbie drove us; she also had to be there. The drive there was beautiful, the scenery and mountains are spectacular. Denise was clever and slept on the way there… But I had good chatting time with Debbie. She’s great!! :) When we got to orientation, it was NOTHING like what I was expecting. There were 4 students, all girls, and three of us from the US. A little disappointing I’m not going to lie. I come from a rotary district that has about 50 students every year... I was expecting more students... And more variety of where they were from. Sheena, Denise and I were the three from the US. There was one other girl named Manon, from Belgium. She spoke very little English, but is very very sweet. :) Orientation consisted of lectures... a very long boring slideshow. Debbie was even shocked at how “unfun” it was. But oddly, I actually did have a fun weekend. The whole time I was just listening to the other girls’ problems and concerns... I realized how amazing my host rotary club is, and how blessed I am that God put all these amazing people in my life. Grahamstown Sunset is the best rotary club in SA!! I’m enjoying my club, loving my host families, and making friends. The others can’t all say the same things...
After the long weekend, Denise stayed through Monday and got to come to VG to see my school, and get a taste of a typical day in the life of me. She and I aren’t too tight, we are very different... She didn’t enjoy VG too much, so I guess it’s good she goes to Port Alfred High. She went home Monday night.
O n Monday night I had a rotary meeting. My favorite… :) I mean don’t get me wrong, it’s not like I live for committee meeting nights… but the atmosphere of the club and the people is what I look forward to every Monday. The people are so amazing!! Ahh I feel at home here.
Tuesday was just a day at school… I got to go for a run and a long walk with Les and the dogs. It was nice! I sure am glad I have no issues communicating with adults. (Thanks Mom and Dad)
Today is Wednesday the 16th of September. I have officially been in this lovely country of South Africa for two whole months!! I can remember the day I arrived… oh boy!! It feels like yesterday. I love every day more and more. Always keeping busy and enjoying anything that is thrown at me.
This afternoon I had “fitness” (we are required to do at least 3 hours of co-curricular activities through school per week). It is really a big joke. The teachers take us for an hour and try to play games...etc. Well today we had a teacher leading us named Ms. Farquar. She is old and ornery, but secretly I think she loves all the girls. Anyways, Ms. Farquar was trying to explain a new game... well nobody was interested so all the girls and I started cheering, dancing, and doing their old primary games!! The teacher gave up, and for the last half hour; we played silly games! One of my best friends Who calls me “my sista from Minnesota” named Thembu (Tim-boo) was teaching me how to dance like a true black South African… it ended up with everyone laughing at me. I’m a hopeless dancer! They are all so great, I love these girls. I still get teased, for how I speak my high energy level, and smiling all the time! They always ask me why I’m always so happy! Haha then of course that just makes me laugh and the cycle continues.
Everyone is counting down until the third term ends.. only 4 more days!! Then I’m off to Kruger National Park!! WOO HOO!!! SO KEEN! ;)
I love you all-
Sending love and peace to everyone from Sunny South Africa-
Alison

Saturday, September 19, 2009-Today I’m going on a hike with Les and Pauline. This is the last weekend I will be with them.. the time really flew!! I’m learning how to get along with all sorts of people.. and right when I’m really feeling comfortable with this very sweet family, I’m out the door- moving. It’s an odd feeling because I’m really looking forward to living with the Benyon’s, and at the same time I’m going to miss the Mitchell’s! It should be an easy transition..It’s not easy forming relationships with people; then moving out. But that is what this whole thing is all about…
Love,
Alison

Lovin' It!

My host parents are listening to "my humps" no lie. hahaha I'm downstairs and I can here it- it's so loud!! hahaha :) oh gosh.. they really are sweet though.

Anyways.. I've been very busy.. lets see..

Wednesday 8/19-21 I went on a grade 11 leadership camp! I can't tell you guys how much fun it was!! It was great to chill and bond with all the girls for a good three days. The camp was in a BEAUTIFUL town called Hogsback.. waterfalls, mountains, and rivers! I got a lot of true fresh air.. it was amazing! During camp, we did SO SO many fun activities I did everything i had time for- why not?!
some of the things I did--
1. Climbed a 7 meter (wobbly) wooden pole.. stood up on a tiny platform just big enough for my feet to fit on- and leaped into the air! It was a trapeze jump. :) I was the first person to get up there and do it! haha I simply told myself i was going to do it, got up, counted to three and jumped! I'd do it again in a heartbeat!! All the girls think I'm crazy brave. I didn't really think it was too scary!
2. A group of three girls.. Danielle, Izuz, and I completed a challenge called Jacobs ladder. This thing was a HUGE ladder, it hung 9meters high. It was made of large logs (about 8 logs) spaced at different distances apart. it was easily on of the most physically challenging things I've ever done. Teamwork was key. We could not have completed it without the other to lean on, step on, grab onto, or encourage. We were the ONLY group to complete this challenge! It's SO awesome to be able to say that.
3. A night hike.. with no "torches" (flashlights). It was very cool. You had to trust the person in front of you for direction!

It was the most fun I've had in a long time!! It's also nice to feel like I finally have friends.
After the most incredible week, I got to spend the weekend with the Benyon's! We went to the Albany Museum in G-town, took a "poor man's" game drive.. and we saw a giraffe!!!!! It was SO COOL!! I love driving around looking for animals!

On Monday 8/24 I gave my first speech about myself to The Rotary Club of Grahamstown Sunset! It went very well (or so I'm told)! I'm very glad to have that done.. but it was fun to let them get to know me a little more! They are really sweet and everyone is so welcoming! :)

Also to my club at home- Thank you so much for supporting me and thinking of me! Make sure and keep me up to date with the new students from Monticello who are applying this year to take the leap and experience an amazing year far from home. I can't wait to tell you all about my year.. It'll be so great to share with all of you!!

I'm keeping busy with school.. goodness the teachers here just love HUGE projects for some reason. It sucks. Also, Athletics has started. It's basically like a fitness session. One hour of being active twice a week. It's fun, and sometimes a bit silly.. but the girls are great, and it's nice to be active! :)

That's all I have for now..
God's peace and love-
Alison

My latest Update

August 9-10 2009
This weekend was a long weekend because of the public holiday (women’s day).
Friday was amazing. Church was so powerful- I can’t begin to describe to you how the Holy Spirit is moving in my life.
On Saturday I went to a local game park for a picnic lunch with les and Pauline’s daughter, Ruth. She invited me along with a few of her friends. She lives in England and is back there now.
On Sunday I was at home again J I went to church with my mommy Suzette and daddy George!! They are the most special people in the world- I love them so much!! After church I got to spend some time with them again.. it was nice to feel at home again after a rough week adjusting to new people.
After I got some “Green Time” I went to the most energetic, fun-loving, and inviting home for the night and next day! I stayed at Rob and Kate Benyon’s home on the Rhodes campus(pretty sweet). I’m officially in love with my soon-to-be younger sisters!! They are so sweet oh and we have fun!! Everyone hears a lot of “Alison did you..Alison do you know.. Alison guess what.. Alison Alison Alison!!” haha it’s so great J I answer many questions, laugh a whole lot, and had a really fun few days with the girls. I really can’t express how fun they are!!! I’ve started the countdown…
Rob and Kate want to take me places, show me things, and do everything we can while I’m with them. Special people huh? I think so!! I am blessed!! So with that being said- on Monday morning we all got up got ready and headed to the ocean!(as we were in the car, we all were blowing bubbles. And it started out kind of rocky, with spitting out the gum accidentally only on occasion. Haha but by the end of the day everyone was a pro! Paula is a great bubble blower now.) First stop was Port Alfred.. it’s beautiful. Rob has a brother that owns a boat and they live in Port Alfred. We met up with them and they took all of us on a nice ride up and down a river. It was beautiful weather, beautiful countryside to take in- and of course fantastic company! It is so beautiful here. You must all come and see. After the boat ride we headed to the beach! We went over to Kenton.. About 15 mins from Port Alfred I think. I want you all to remember it is the middle of winter in sunny South Africa and I had my swimsuit on! It was a bit too chilly for Kate, Jess and me to swim- but Rob Paula and Jess’s friend Kaylee swam! It’s amazing how a little sun and sand can put everyone in a happy mood!
But wait it even gets better…
On our way home, we travel through many game farms… I got to see 3 rhinos up close- from the side of the road. It was the coolest thing ever!!! They are huge muscular animals.. Kinda scary but thrilling all at once. I got to spend the day with a really cool family!! I’m looking forward to living with them soon.
Some days are good and some are not. Tuesday 8/11/09 was one tough tough day. The “vacation period” felt like it was ending and I wanted to get on the next flight home. I felt very alone and sad. I got a wonderful package from my mom, with a new iPod and special notes and things that made me want to jump over to MN and give her a big hug. This just set off my “waterworks”… I was missing the familiar things I took for granted. The sense of being safe and protected, having freedom to go anywhere do I anything whenever, and the precious family and friends that I got to see every day. This was also a BLAH day at school. It is hard to have motivation and want to be in that freezing building every day.
Oh a happier note—after a good cry, call home to mom, and a good night’s sleep, the next day was better!! I took my calculator to school today (light pink graphing one) and the girls went NUTS!! Haha they thought my calculator was the coolest thing in the world! It is so funny to see their reactions to everything- and observe how they do things! The black girls laugh at me because I’m the silly white American who makes everything into jokes and keeps everything chill. Haha they’re great!! And I’ve made some good friends. They are all very nice and I met some grade 8’s today- they thought they were SO cool because they have now spoken to an American! Haha the girls make me laugh. You can’t rush the process of making friends. And I could never replace my Jen Jen or Carissa… but each day is new and it gets better and better. It’s great how God helps us when we’re down!!
On Thursday 8/14/09 we had church youth—it got moved to Thursday because the youth leadership team was going out of town on Friday. But anyways, on Thursday, everyone gathered at the church, bringing any type of sandwich making material they could. We all made sandwiches.. and walked out along the streets handing them out to all the people who needed one. We also handed out any gently used blankets and clothing that we could gather. As we handed them all out, we asked the people if we could pray over them. I have NEVER had any experience with this, but God helped me through it and I was able to pray over about 5 people. It’s a pretty powerful thing. I’m being tested, pushed, and encouraged in my faith- I’m soaking it all up and loving every minute of it.
This week was good- tonight 8/14/09 I’m headed to a friend’s house for a movie night! Then tomorrow I’m going on a hike with Les and all his former students. (He taught at a school in the township) It should be a pretty cool experience and it will be great to get some fresh air and exercise. Sunday will be a day to work on projects and prepare for another week of school.
When you are in grade 11 here, you are considered the leaders of the school. It’s very formal and stuff. We sign up for committees and kind of run the school. So this past week we signed up for committees and I’m on the money box committee (in charge of expenses and stuff), the dress check committee (make sure girls wear nice things to dances), and the grade 11 and 12 formal dance committee. It’s good to start getting involved. Pretty soon I will start athletics (basically track and field). I’m looking forward to it!! So in the end, everything is going great. A few hiccups but I’m getting through it and that’s what this experience is all about!!
So there you go!! You are all filled in.
Love and peace-
Alison
August 17, 2009
Today is my momma’s birthday!!!! J I’ve been thinking about you all day Mom! Love you so much- have a great day!!!
And after my hectic weekend… I realized I’m a bad hiker. Haha!!! I’m pretty sure my Uncle Jeff and Brother Glenn would’ve gotten a good laugh- I was so busy trying not to trip on things, that (more than once) I hit my head on a tree branch or some really random weed hanging from a tree… haha!! It was nice to get fresh air and be tested( in a way). This experience can be compared to a hike. There are times you want to look back, turn around, go home. But in the end, you know you did something good and you can wait for the next thing to come..
On Sunday I slept in and later went to church. I love church!! And I get to see my Mommy Suzette. J I run right to her when I arrive- no matter who’s watching or what’s going on. I’m surrounded with great people. J
And also- EVERYONE READING THIS: please don’t get angry or frustrated with my poor father if he has nothing to update you with(about me). Haha it’s my fault!! I’ve been keeping really busy, and I’m going to try to update you more.. I promise!! But it’s not his fault, so patients please! J
Love, peace, and God’s blessings to all-
Alison