Many of you already know this, but for those who don't I'm going to do an awkward blog post (since I find it even more awkward to announce it in person). After a lot of thought, and a strong desire to do it for years, I'm going to volunteer in Kenya for four months, starting March 15th. I've been researching doing this since I graduated college, but it's a wee expensive and I never really found the right time. I decided back in August to apply to the Global Volunteers Network, but with so much going on I put off telling everyone. Also, there is just something funny about telling others. Like when I told my dentist that I couldn't schedule my next check-up in six months because I'd be in Africa. Chicky, say whaaat?
Anyway, like I said, I start March 15th and I won't know what my placement or village will be until about a month before. I have requested to spend two months in an orphanage and two months in a school, but ultimately they'll place me wherever I'm most needed at the time. I'm in contact with two other volunteers who have been super helpful and encouraging. To be honest, I've been really excited about it but also a tad panicky. In August, March seemed very far away, but now it's becoming a lot more real. Me no likey not showering. I also need to remember that Simba won't be prowling around in my backyard, more like a few chickens. However, one of the volunteers I am speaking with DID spend her birthday in a cottage in the Ngong Hills. I hope all of you are mentally reciting the first line to Out of Africa right now.
So, folks, that's my big news. But wait! There's more! In order to afford doing this, I am throwing a fundraiser on either January 30th or February 6th. Martha, Annie, and Frank have been helping me plan (awww, roomies!!) but it will take place in some sort of hall with a bar and lots of food and dancing. My bff from Fairfield is making a website for it where people can get information about where their money is going and pay for their ticket via Paypall (Annie's brilliant idea). Sounds pretty legit, eh? Yeah, I guess I am pretty legit.
So, hurray hurrah! Africa, here I come!
8 comments:
Too legit to quit.
Seriously, this sounds great. I'm so proud of you for going through with something like this.
Perhaps we will have to add hot water to your list in your fundraiser, you know, for the hours you'll spend using up all Dad's hot water when you get home :)
Kenya: believe it!
I have an idea, Lisette. Or maybe it's a request. Or maybe it's an order:
How about you auction off your TREADMILL at your fundraiser? You know, that lovely piece of furniture you've had sitting in your room for a year?
That way we can really turn your room into a 2 bed guest/room-for-Lisette-when-she-comes-home-if-the-savages-don't-eat-her. Hahahaha.
Or Craigslist would work.
Seriously, this Africa expedition is one you've pined for for sooooo long.
But, gosh. It's going to be really, really hard to see you go. ):
YAAHOOO! I can't wait to dance my pants off at the fundraiser! That's the only cool part of this whole thing. Africa shmafrica. Nooo big deal.
Wow! I remember talking over burgers to a certain intern about her wish to go to Africa on such a trip. I'm so happy it is happening.
Smelly Poo, it will be life-changing you know. Of course you know. And you also know that this is the perfect time in your life to be doing such a thing. Cheers!
I'm sooooooooooooooo jealous! But so excited. What an opportunity! Are you going to have a silent auction? I can get you Cheesecake Fcatory gift cards.....just an idea.
Super jealous of all the cool places some of my younger sibs have been. But this is the best!
Can I come with you???
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