Day Five

 We started the day with another delicious breakfast (kidding).  We left the COTN compound at 8 am and headed for Chichere Farm, a home for 15 teenage boys and a 350 acre working farm.  The farm produces all of the food for COTN children's programs - including maise, peanuts, sunflowers, tomatoes and fruit. The boys work as assistants to the farm laborers during school breaks and during their gap year ( between high school and hopefully university). We met an 18 year old young man named Peter who was waiting for his exam results. He hopes to attend university and then law school. We learned that he needs a sponsor in order to attend university. Peter told us that he had visited San Diego in 2008 as part of a COTN group. He is so hopeful about his future.  There is so much need.  As we were leaving he asked Ranie if she was on Facebook.  They shared contact info and he promised to let her know when he receives his exam results.

Steven, our COTN coordinator, shared his history with the group during our return trip.  He was orphaned as a young boy and he and his younger siblings were raised by his older brother without resources.  They lived in horrible circumstances but he was able to attend school because COTN paid for his education through 12th grade.  He's a great example of what is possible when someone supports a Malawi child.

The highlight of our day was meeting our sponsor child in Mgawyi Village. We met Binosi, his parents and 2 brothers and sister.  They were a lovely family that was so grateful for the support they are receiving through COTN.  The mother thanked us for blankets, soap, clothing and Binosi"s education.  We walked through the village with Ranie holding Binosi's hand and carrying his sister.  He never let go of her hand.  We will be able to see him again on Tuesday when all the sponsor children attend a lunch.  We will be giving Binosi his gift at that event.  It was so amazing to see beautiful face.

There is a dance party this evening. We will likely be spectators because we are so tired. We leave for our safari tomorrow morning. It's a 4 hour drive so tomorrow will be another long day. At least the trip will be in a tour bus. Hopefully our days of 20 people in a Toyota van are over!

Africa's revenge has been making its way through the ranks. Four of or team members have been down with stomach problems. Fortunately I have been spared so far. For you folks at Ken Lee, I could fill a years worth of "News From Ken Lee" articles.