Another banner day at the worksite! We made a lot of progress on both houses thanks to the hot, dry and sunny weather. The walls are nearly complete. The local craftsman erected wooden scaffolding in order for us to be able to reach the top levels. Once the walls are up, the roof will go … Continue reading
Global Village Mulanje, Malawi – Day 2
Rain delay. The rains came yesterday afternoon and they’ve decided to stay. Working in the rain isn’t always a problem, but when you are building with “matope” (mortar) made with mud, too much water ain’t a good thing. Dirt roads that turn to mud when they are saturated also would make it challenging for our … Continue reading
Global Village Mulanje, Malawi – Day 1
Meeting your host community for the first time, a long-awaited experience, is a thrill no matter how many times you’ve done it. Long before our bus reached its stopping point, excited children were waving their arms, smiling and yelling to get our attention as we passed by. Welcoming us with song and dance, we were … Continue reading
Global Village Malawi – Arrival
We made it! And we have all almost mastered the greetings and basic words of our new language, Chichewa. Muli Bwanji? Ndidi Bwino! Malawi is as beautiful as expected and truly lives up to its reputation as being “The Warm Heart of Africa.” Already in just one day’s time, we have bonded with one another … Continue reading
Goin’ Down the Ocean, Hon
The weathered wood of an old boardwalk. The smell of coconut on skin. The sound of waves crashing into the shore. Otherwise known as the beach. Sitting in the shade of an umbrella as the sun beat down and the stifling heat reflected off the sand, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Who came up with … Continue reading
On the Radio! Habitat for Humanity & Women Build
“Why yes!” I would love to be a guest on Ann Quasman’s WomanTalk Live on Talkradio 680 WCBM Baltimore to talk about Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake and Women Build! Last Saturday, April 20, I was honored to join Cynthia Wiggins, Habitat homeowner extraordinaire and Habitat advocate, the fabulous Shanita Modlin, Habitat homeowner and … Continue reading
Super Snack! Crunchy Kale Chips
If I’ve made these once, I’ve made them 50 times! They are delicious (better than you’d think), good for your body and everyone loves them! My kids and their friends even like them. They have the satisfying crunch of a salty potato chip but all the health benefits of a leafy green. They have become an … Continue reading
Day 3: Santa Fe
Santa Fe is an art collector’s kind of town. Galleries selling fine art of many varieties abound. Oil paintings, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, most of which have a southwestern flair can be had for prices that mirror their quality. Additionally, if you are in the market for anything that you might want to wear to a … Continue reading
Day 2: Albuquerque & St. Leveo and the Church Street Cafe
If you are a lover of the farm to table movement, breakfast at Los Poblanos (included in the room rate) will tantalize all your senses. From the sun filled dining room overlooking the gardens, to the rustic antique furniture and tin work chandeliers to the earthly delights that show up on your plate, the entire … Continue reading