tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36400905516003487402024-02-07T09:41:18.838-10:00Cook Islands BlogGlobal Volunteers posts from the Cook Islands. Country Manager, hosts and team members describe work projects and share their thoughts about volunteer activities and experiences.Global Volunteershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05153973961115698118noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-90967346272026627862013-08-30T20:29:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:30:29.274-10:00Live life and help others<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Today at school we continued
working with all age groups in reading and becoming fast friends with the kids.
Our entire group feels very comfortable with the teachers and routine of the
school. Smiles of recognition and happy hellos keep us delighted. Barb, Olivia,
Alex, and Gary went to town on some errands and I went swimming at the Kii Kii
pool. It’s hard to believe that soon we will be saying goodbye as Friday is our
last day at school. </div>
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This afternoon Debi and James
picked us up for a fundraiser event where we all joined in a power workout led
by Debi and her friends. It was very fun and energizing. Barb helped to sell
coconuts to help everyone hydrate. Back home at the Kii Kii we are relaxed and
contented after a busy day.</div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Terry<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Live life and help others.”</div>
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-48325574598543239272013-08-29T20:22:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:27:18.881-10:00A wonderful day at Takitumu school<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
We had a wonderful day at
Takitumu school. We were greeted with many “hellos” and “good mornings” as we made our way off the bus. All of us spent time
reading with the grades five and six while Jack spent time in his class. When
we were done with the older children, we moved on to the younger classes.
During lunch we had fun playing whiffle ball, frisbee, and netball as well as
tag. It seems we have all gotten into a routine. I was able to read to Jack’s class as well as
play a few games. A highlight of my day is putting the toothpaste on the
children’s toothbrushes after lunch. After school we headed to town and much to
our delight we had our favorite bus driver who has entertained us with his
singing and jokes. We had an enjoyable time at Trader Jack’s while Terry had
some alone time in town. In the evening we spent time at the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Whale</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Research</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> with Nan Hauser.
It was a great experience. After we had a nice dinner at Boogies where we spent
some more time with Nan/Debbie and one of Nan’s interns. Overall, it was a
great day and I can’t believe tomorrow is Thursday and our trip is almost over!</div>
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<i>Entry submitted by: Barbara</i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “A life is not important except for the
impact it has on other lives.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-37526261286115329672013-08-28T20:20:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:22:11.986-10:00I will miss this island<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
After a day of rain we had a
beautiful day of sunshine and 24 degrees Celsius. The children at school were
glad to be able to get out on the field and play. I really enjoyed the day,
especially being able to read and do math and art with eight students ages
eight to eleven. I ate lunch with the five-year-olds again. They always
energize me. James and Debi and grandpa showed us the many forms of coconuts
from young to old. They all tasted great. I love their home! They also have the
Matutu brewery in their front yard – many of my friends back home would be in
heaven. </div>
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The black pearl jeweler, Colin
Rattle gave us an intro to pearls and how they are formed. </div>
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My highlight of the day was
spending time with Sahi at St. Paul’s Church from 2:30 to 4 p.m. working on her
math division and reading and, of course, the great chocolate cake that mother Margret
made for us! However, my legs are still sore from the Sunday hike so I was not
running very fast during the frisbee sessions at school. I will miss this
island. </div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Gary<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Joy blooms where hearts and minds are open.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-46247987255730717512013-08-27T20:16:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:17:34.883-10:00Playing with puppies in Rarotonga<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Today we went to the school and
we had a lot of fun. All of us helped the kids to read. I helped with math and
then lunch time came. We played under the school overhang because it was
raining. It was fun because we played soccer. My mom and I learned a new game
called foo ball. My mom read to my class.</div>
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After school we went to the animal
shelter (Esther Honey). We played with the dogs and the puppies. The puppies
were very small and cute. We took the big dogs on a walk on the beach. My day
was very fun. My favorite was playing with the little puppies.</div>
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<i>Entry submitted by: Jack<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Love your neighbor as yourself.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-20791100536962665722013-08-25T20:12:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:13:04.333-10:00Weekend adventures<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Our adventures for our weekend
included taking in the sights and sounds of the saturday market for me. Gary
went deep sea diving on a chartered boat and Barb, Jack, Olivia, and Alex flew
over to Aitkin for the day. We all went out to dinner with James and Debi to
the Edgewater Resort and were treated to the sounds of traditional drumming and
dancing. On Sunday morning we began our hike across the island through the
interior and up to the mountain. The highlight was getting to the top. We
carefully made our way back down the way we came because it was rustic and slow
going. Back for some dinner at the Vaka lounge for a great dinner. We are
looking forward to getting back to school on Monday.</div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Terry<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Treat others the way you want to be
treated.”</div>
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-73850092542731548692013-08-23T20:08:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:12:21.508-10:00Feeling welcome in the community<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
We had another amazing day! We
went to school and had a great time with the children. After just three days,
it is surprising how comfortable the children are with us and we are with them!
Many of them greet us by name and remember some of the things we have taught
them! We (Olivia, Barb, Terrym and Gary) spent the day helping the children
with their reading. Jack and Alexandra were lucky enough to go on a field trip
with the younger grades. My favorite time of the day is lunch when we get to
spend time playing with the children. After school Olivia and Alexandra were
invited to a friend’s house for a play date. They had a wonderful time and have
been invited back. It is such a friendly warm place and the people here have
made us all feel so welcome. Tonight we had a lovely evening with our group and
James and Debbie. It is really nice getting to know everyone on our team as
well as James and Debbie. Overall, I cannot believe it is almost Friday and
that the days have passed so quickly. Thank you, Terry and Gary, for being so
kind to the kids. </div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Barbara<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day: </i></b>“Help others to help yourself.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-64722107644474127262013-08-22T20:03:00.000-10:002013-10-17T08:04:56.894-10:00A day filled with lots of fun<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Today was an amazing day. It was
filled with lots of fun. I’ll tell you all about it. Once we got up we got dressed
and went out for breakfast. It was delicious. After that we went to the school.
The principal came out and told us what we were going to do. She told Jack and
me to go and help in the third grade. All the kids welcomed us and we started
the day with worksheets. Then I started to color and all the kids wanted
pictures from me. I did a lot mostly for my friends Kimberly and Shonel and a
few others. After that we had lunch. I ate with Olivia, Jack, and Terry. Then
it was time to play. I gave piggy-back rides and horse rides and spun them
around. That was a lot of fun. Then we went back into the classroom and I
colored more. I also did a few races and Gary started us off. It was a workout,
but I love to run! Then we went back and cleaned up. That was a fun day. I
can’t wait to go tomorrow. </div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Alexandra<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Be good to the earth and it will be good
to you!”</div>
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-91460559096560142782013-08-21T19:52:00.000-10:002013-10-17T07:55:59.586-10:00Making friends at Takitumu Elementary<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday we went to Takitumu
Elementary. We met the principal, Engia Pate, and then were assigned classes to
help kids read. We then went to the classes and read with them. All the students were so sweet and friendly. Then
we had lunch and played soccer. I made a lot of friends, one being Jette. She
even invited us over to her house. We began reading again. After that we had
free time and played in the classroom and got to know each other. We then said
goodbye and headed to St. Paul’s Church. We helped some kids with their
homework. I helped a young boy with spelling. We left and went to a dance
practice. I thought it was very interesting and fun. The music was so cool. It
was a workout! We left and had dinner. Today was a great day! </div>
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<i>Entry submitted by:
Olivia</i> </div>
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “By helping others become better we become
better.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-54948321340314002752013-08-20T19:50:00.000-10:002013-10-17T07:51:58.730-10:00Meeting our team in the Cook Islands<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Wow, I can’t believe that I just
landed this morning from Los Angeles. James met our group at the airport. There
are five of us – Barbara and her three wonderful children - Olivia, age 12,
Alexandra, age 10, and Jack, who is 7 - and me, Gary. They all live in San
Diego. I live in Las Vegas. One more lady will join us tomorrow. I can’t wait
to meet Terry. She is from Detroit.</div>
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We had breakfast and our first
orientation of the day. We then had time to explore the island and meet some of
the local people. James’ wife, Debi joined us for the second orientation. We
set some personal and team goals and talked about characteristics of an
effective team. I especially liked the input from Barbara’s children. They were
enthusiastic and creative. We are all excited about tomorrow’s day at the
elementary school.</div>
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<i>Entry submitted by: Gary
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<b><i>Message of the Day:</i></b> “Judge success not by the harvest that you
reap, but the seeds that you sow.”<br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-50713344609936901852013-07-25T20:36:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:40:07.723-10:00Truly a sight to behold <div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tomorrow is our
last day at the school. We were able to work with the children for about an
hour today then the K-3 watched a movie and the 4-6 planted plants and did
other landscaping projects around the school. It was a truly a sight to behold -
the children working so hard and one even wielding a machete. It’s great to see
them take pride and have a sense of ownership about their school. We left a
little early to go to a career expo at one of the high schools. It was a long
walk on the back road, but the expo was interesting. Barb spoke to a nurse
there who said that in 2008 the nursing program stopped, but that this year it
is being restarted. Also, she said that to volunteer here as a nurse one only
needs proof of current license in their home country. After our long walk, we
took a taxi home. We were very grateful for that. In the evening we partook of
an island progressive dinner. We were picked up by a bus and proceeded to the
other hotels to get the rest of our group – twelve in all. We started out with
sparkling wine and appetizers at Danny’s home. He showed us their lovely garden
and told us about the fruits and vegetables growing there and about the history
of the land and the family. We were entertained by him and two other musicians
and two of his grandsons, one three and the other five years old. We then
proceeded to our main course, which was spectacular, then to dessert – again,
wonderful. All the while entertained with music and singing. It was a wonderful
time and such a treat to see the homes of our hosts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Word
of the day: </span></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Soursop<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-3020178748828843512013-07-24T18:34:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:36:27.686-10:00The sun returned to Rarotonga!<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The sun returned
to Rarotonga! Things are beginning to wind down as our last few days at
Takitutumu come to an end. We are both continuing to support the children with
their reading and writing skills. We were lucky enough to enjoy the children
playing <i>rippa</i> (rugby) and took
several pictures and videos. Several of the children are extremely fast runners
and it was impressive to see this in action. Steph enjoyed singing with both
the preschool children and grade one class today. During one of the songs the
children can get up and dance which included both “jumping up and down” and a
few who showed off their traditional Maori danced skills. We were lucky to be
taken to see a local pearl jeweller and purchase pendants which are made with
mabe pearls. Beautiful and unique. We had a yummy dinner at the Rickshaw for a
Japanese-inspired meal complete with sticky toffee pudding. A late night for us
– 8:37 p.m.! Party animals!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Message of the
Day:</span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
“If you think you can you can, if you think you can’t you are absolutely
right.”<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of the day: </span></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mabe and pineapple lumps = chocolate-covered
pineapple<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-39024774010262453102013-07-23T22:31:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:33:53.780-10:00Starting the spelling programs<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It was a very
rainy day today, but luckily we got rides to and from school. Steph continued
to read to the children and Barb started the spelling programs on the Nessy
program. Engia brought in jackfruit for us to try – sweet and delicious. The
kids had fun taking pictures with Barb’s iPhone camera. Tomorrow’s sports
competition have been cancelled due to the rainy weather – too bad since we
were looking forward to that. Tonight was our last of Napa’s yummy catered
dinners. We will really miss the passion fruit! We whiled away the rainy afternoon
playing cards in Barb’s room. The forecast says one more day and the sun will
return.<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Message of the
Day:</span></span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
“People may forget what you said, people may forget what you did, but people
will always remember how you made them feel.”</span></span></div>
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-11530508365131814662013-07-22T22:26:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:28:14.369-10:00Another day in Rarotonga<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Another rainy
day in Rarotonga. Today at school we had only a half day as the teachers were
meeting with the parents and reviewing the children’s portfolios. Barb was able
to continue her work on the computer as the keys were returned. She also
demonstrated to the children how to make origami boxes which was a huge hit.
Steph assisted Engia with formatting the children’s reports and began work on a
booklet to support the preschool children’s visit to Captain Tama’s. The grade
4 children also were able to take some pictures using Steph’s camera. After
school we went to the printer in Avarua to print a final draft of the 50<sup>th</sup>
invitation. It was wonderful having one of the employees support us with
formatting – this would never happen back home. We had a delicious lunch at
Café Salsa and headed back to the KiiKii. A quiet few hours before our dinner.
Time is beginning to go by too quickly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Message of the
Day:</span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
“Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of
luck.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of the day:</span></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <i>tiare</i> =
flower <i>puka</i> = book<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-7737685360242672682013-07-19T18:24:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:25:24.712-10:00Lagoon Day at Takitumu school<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today was lagoon
day for the fifth and sixth graders at Takitumu school. We accompanied them on
the bus to the market in Avarua where it was held. It was very well organized
and covered all things relating to keeping the lagoon healthy - everything from
proper disposal of light bulbs to worm farming to identifying fish to creating
laws to protect the lagoons of the Cook Islands. It was all very informative –
I know we volunteers learned a lot. All the school children of Rarotonga had
created sea creatures out of rubbish and they were all on display there. It was
an amazingly beautiful display. We then had a free afternoon to explore on our
own as the children returned to school. We went to a local beach and spent some
sun, sand, and sea time. Our evening was a trip to a restaurant in Avarua.
Early to bed for our trip tomorrow to Aitutaki. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Word
of the day:</span></b><span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> vegemite sandwich = knuckle sandwich<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-91249857649190284192013-07-18T22:22:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:23:18.537-10:00More reading time<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today at
Takitumu school things began a bit slowly. The keys to the library were
misplaced so Barb was not able to continue with the computer program. This
allowed more reading time with the children. Steph was able to visit with the
preschool centre and was invited to attend a local ECE conference. The
attendees graciously allowed her to participate and even translated the
workshops for her. Dinner was at High Tide followed by a practice performance
at the National Auditorium in the Manuke hostel. As always the dancing and
singing was a highlight of the day. We are off to lagoon day on Friday!! <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-NZ">Message of the
Day: </span></i></b><i><span lang="EN-NZ">“</span></i><span lang="EN-NZ">To
understand the culture, study the dance. To understand the dance study the
people.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Words
of the day:</span></span></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <i>tamariki</i> –
children</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-76497913631066626722013-07-17T18:03:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:21:57.779-10:00Making paper airplanes<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday at
Takitumu school! Steph continued reading with the children in pairs while Barb
worked with them on the Nessy computer program. We are nearly ready to move on to
spelling in that program. At afternoon playtime the children were very excited
to be making paper airplanes and trying to fly them in the wind. Many of them
landed on the roof. One can feel the excitement in the air since the school
term is about to end. One of the teachers brought in cooked banana for us to
try – it was very sweet. Engia baked bread so we got to try that, too. After
school we walked back to the KiiKii on the back road. It was a lovely walk past
many fields of mango, pawpaw, bell peppers, and other crops. It was very quiet
with a beautiful backdrop of palm trees and Rarotonga’s majestic mountains! We
even saw and old ceremonial airai-tonga site where the investiture of an airiki
chief took place. <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Words
of the day: </span></span></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">biscuit – cookie
</span><i>rori</i> - sea cucumber</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-79284067050825250692013-07-16T18:01:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:02:20.222-10:00Your basket and my basket will feed the nation<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A rainy day in
Rarotonga! We shared our work on the 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary invitation.
Engia was pleased and requested a few changes to ensure the photos included all
students and teachers. Positive feedback was also received from the teachers.
Steph began the day singing with the grade one class – always a highlight for
her. The children are progressing well with the Nessy computer program and Barb
noted even the children whose letter-sound recognition is not as strong as
others’ are doing well. We managed to miss the bus once again and took the
anti-clockwise bus down to the homework center. We supported two young children
who are new to the center and have not spoken yet there. We were lucky to
receive a ride home from Jane, who shared a bit of the history of Global
Volunteers. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-NZ">Message of the
Day:</span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ">
“Your basket and my basket will feed the nation.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span lang="EN-NZ">Words
of the day:</span></b><span lang="EN-NZ"> <i>Oroenua</i> –
horse</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-29952296393134014472013-07-15T21:57:00.000-10:002013-10-17T06:00:36.731-10:00Today's reader, tomorrow's leader<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Monday! Today
Barb started working with the students on the reading and spelling computer
program Nessy. It’s definitely a hit with the children! They are progressing
well and will continue to work on this for the remainder of the next two weeks.
Steph continued to read to the children in groups of two and read to the
fourth- and fifth-grade class. We talked politics and history with the 6<sup>th</sup>
grade teacher, Puti, and were given a lesson in Cook Island political structure
and history. Some of the children mentioned that they saw us pedalling around
the island on our green bicycles on the weekend.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Message of the
Day:</span></span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
“Today’s reader, tomorrow’s leader.”</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-38449700045394547732013-07-12T21:55:00.000-10:002013-10-17T05:56:53.129-10:00A spectacular school assembly<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Our first week
at Takitumu came to an end; the time is flying by too quickly. The school held
their assembly in the morning which was a spectacular sight for us to
experience. The children sang many traditional songs including our first
experience with hearing the Cook Islands national anthem. Their voices and
spirit were both inspiring and emotional for us to hear. We continued our
reading time with the children and tried our first ice block. Barb will begin
to support the children on the Nessy computer program next week and will
complete the 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary invitation for the school. The day
ended early as the children would be practicing sports in preparation for the
end of term island competition between schools. We took advantage of our free
time on the beach by the KiiKii. We enjoyed a fish dinner at a local restaurant
where the local beach cat bullied his way into a few bites of fish. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-NZ">Message of the
Day:</span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ">
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect
to sit.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Words
of the day: </span></span></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">chip butty = French fry sandwich</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-4895448307282663032013-07-11T20:53:00.000-10:002013-10-17T05:53:58.866-10:00A successful day at Takitumu!<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A successful day
at Takitumu! We are both feeling like we are getting in the groove of the
school and the children. Steph had an opportunity to observe the grade one
classroom, sing songs with the children, and spend time individually with them.
We continue to work with the children in pairs on their reading and to read
aloud to them as a class. We joined them in their afternoon break running races
across the field, frolicking to and fro in the wop wops! After school we toured
the circumference of the island via the bus, pinpointing future excursion
destinations. After rest time we were treated by GV to a lovely beachside
dinner at a local restaurant where we were so lucky to observe a whale
breaching. <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-NZ">Message of the
Day:</span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ">
“Don’t judge success by the harvest that you reap but by the seeds that you sow.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Words
of the day:</span></span></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> wop wop = boondocks
</span>ice block = popsicle</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-12206926907469160772013-07-10T22:50:00.000-10:002013-10-17T05:52:44.519-10:00Helping children with their reading<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Our day at
Takitumu began with meeting more children and supporting them with their
reading. Barb shared information with Engia about the skin condition the
children are experiencing. After lunch we were able to go and read books to two
different classes and will continue this over the next few weeks. We identified
several children who might benefit from some additional individual reading time
and we will begin this over the next few days. Steph will also be observing in
one class a few children that the teacher is concerned may have some language
comprehension concerns. A few of the children invited us to watch their rugby
match at the end of the day and waved goodbye as we left.<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Message of the
Day:</span></span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
“The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.”</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-23770408335141986442013-07-10T05:38:00.000-10:002013-07-10T06:16:36.729-10:00"Hope in the Concept of Peace" - An Interview with Cook Island Country Manager James Puati<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydn5lmZtNWCz65EJc301OC7a0IopfFU-4w2A27mNdIUvIsNYY7ib67HDc4P3ljO6xc7C5whjkl4UJhj3kehy4vueTYcEVHcvvSB8tgQPbCQLPRILA_46eLbftf8mqAKrAgabi7IeBijQ/s1600/IMG_2933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydn5lmZtNWCz65EJc301OC7a0IopfFU-4w2A27mNdIUvIsNYY7ib67HDc4P3ljO6xc7C5whjkl4UJhj3kehy4vueTYcEVHcvvSB8tgQPbCQLPRILA_46eLbftf8mqAKrAgabi7IeBijQ/s200/IMG_2933.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James Puati, Country Manager</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>What is your perspective on the Global Volunteers
organization in your community?</em></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Global Volunteers has become an institution
in our community. Over the 15 years of service, there have been in excess of 135 teams of volunteers who have
assisted with the development of our nation in the areas of Education, Health,
Environmental and Social services as well as in many other incidental areas as
the need has arisen. It has been, and will continue to be, a sustainable
program which the community can rely on.</span> </span> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>How do volunteers make a significant impact on community
projects?</em></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">One of the main investments a
country can do is in the area of education. Our program has contributed
significantly to the education of young people in the Cook islands by
supporting literacy development as well as other areas in education as
volunteers specific skills are utilized in response to the community or schools
need. When a team is coming, it becomes a catalyst for projects to carry on,
start, or move in another direction. The volunteers coming and providing
service somehow produces energy and renews excitement in on-going projects.</span> </span></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk59tEX2IeRG9FLIXOfloLYk0_CA7OsdA16jmHqBJOE0OzkT4lNTc3_wR_f-4EiDyMriak31jdz2wYkqDjmc_bbPFfS8HPmwnAyHY6icBRS7dHU_SP_PEGSl93HiccsosaWQq7BQbVEa0/s1600/Abby+Rosenthal+working+with+students+from+Takitumu+Schoo+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk59tEX2IeRG9FLIXOfloLYk0_CA7OsdA16jmHqBJOE0OzkT4lNTc3_wR_f-4EiDyMriak31jdz2wYkqDjmc_bbPFfS8HPmwnAyHY6icBRS7dHU_SP_PEGSl93HiccsosaWQq7BQbVEa0/s320/Abby+Rosenthal+working+with+students+from+Takitumu+Schoo+(4).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteer Abby Rosenthal works with students from Takitumu School.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></em></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em></em></strong></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><br />How is it different from other volunteering opportunities?</em></strong></span></em></strong></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em><strong>
</strong></em></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fce5cd;">Global Volunteers has a history of integrity that's well-known throughout the community!</span> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<em>
</em></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><br /><em><br />What do you like volunteers to know about your community?</em></strong></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Cook Islands is a developing
nation, it is not a third-world country. While progress is being made,
there is still a lot of room for improvement. For instance, w</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">hile Maori is the native language
of the Cook Islands, English is predominantly spoken - and this creates some
unique difficulties as often neither Maori or English are spoken
well. Linguists will tell you that to learn a second language well you must first
know speak your mother tongue fluently. </span></span></div>
<span style="color: #fff2cc;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Also, our community is heavily dependent
on aide from a number of countries. Tourism is the main income earner for the
Cook Islands ,and students are encouraged in High School to develop entrepreneurial skills / business development opportunities for their future.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GdVYCPVQDzsdrWZPVjTZ5C6Q8bUTcwAoNTLbqU8YVwLtnd529c8qSmqcQHzp1JHDnc_PPRz3a-z6sbFETyMNExMpkHzAGOP2GXdY1VfHxWBcJ2Oy3ahK-KkLSvEd-9i2dzuc5kwcadU/s1600/Dog+and+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GdVYCPVQDzsdrWZPVjTZ5C6Q8bUTcwAoNTLbqU8YVwLtnd529c8qSmqcQHzp1JHDnc_PPRz3a-z6sbFETyMNExMpkHzAGOP2GXdY1VfHxWBcJ2Oy3ahK-KkLSvEd-9i2dzuc5kwcadU/s320/Dog+and+beach.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><br />What's unique about the Cook Islands Service Program?</em></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #fff2cc; font-family: Calibri;">Providing service on a small South
Pacific Island offers opportunities to really connect with local people. As the
program has been operating for 15 years people know the Global Volunteers well,
and often speak to you on the bus, when out for dinner, or during leisure time.
Volunteers have mentioned how special they are made to feel when out in the
community and being recognized and greeted by a child they have been
working with and their family. This happens often in a small community of only
around 9,000 people. </span></div>
<span style="color: #fff2cc;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #fff2cc; font-family: Calibri;">Rarotonga is a very safe place, and
we have had many single people feel totally comfortable while in the Cook
Islands - you are part of a team, but you are able to do things on your own and
feel safe about that.</span></div>
<span style="color: #fff2cc;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Free time opportunities are abundant
outside of the service program as tourism is our major industry. Some pleasures
volunteers have participated in are diving, snorkeling, travelling to the
outer islands on the weekend, learning traditional dance, and learning our history.</span> </span> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><br />What do volunteers most often say they learn about volunteering
with local people?</em></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Humility and gratitude
for all they have in their lives are characteristic of Cook Islanders. Volunteers say they learn how to laugh and to not make life so
difficult. They admire our belief that you do not need to have a lot of money to be happy</span>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><br />How does this service opportunity expand volunteers’
perspective of the world?</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Gaining perspective on another way
of life offers the understanding that we are more alike than different. Families
all over the world want the same things for their children, sometimes we just
go about things differently. Gaining an insight into the Pacific culture and
how Cook Islanders value people first is perhaps a good reminder for some
people and a reinforcement of those values for others.</span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em><br />What are your reflections on Global Volunteers’ 30<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
year of service?</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">At times Debi and I are
flabbergasted at the generosity of volunteers. To comprehend that 135 teams
have given of their time, energy, wisdom and finances to our wee slice of
heaven is sometimes almost incomprehensible. Then to magnify that by the
numbers of teams that have supported other communities in other countries
almost defies imagination. Global Volunteers offers hope in the concept of peace. It offers
hope in the concept of cooperation. It offers hope in the concept of
togetherness.</span> </span></span></div>
www.globalvolunteers.orghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10482325695295176924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-90275866713640780902013-07-09T23:48:00.000-10:002013-10-17T05:49:54.073-10:00A warm welcome at Takitumu school<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, today was
our first day of school and, of course, we forgot our lunches with no mom to
bring them! Upon arrival at Takitumu school, we were warmly greeted by Engia, the
principal. Our day was spent reading with the children of the 4<sup>th</sup>
and 5<sup>th</sup> grade class in groups of two. It was impressive how hard
they worked at their reading and how much they supported each other’s efforts.
After the school day was over we went to the homework centre at St. Paul’s to
tutor after-school studies. We each worked one on one with the children on
reading and math skills.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Message of the
Day:</span></span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
“Strive not to be a success rather to be of value.”</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-51300187942512240712013-07-08T22:33:00.000-10:002013-10-17T05:45:03.355-10:00Arriving in the Cook Islands<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We were greeted
at airport with beautiful flower eis. We spent the day getting oriented to the
island, our project, our hotel, and each other. Barbara sorted out her
communications and we did some housekeeping. We enjoyed a nice visit to the
town and walked back to the hotel. Time was spent relaxing and enjoying the
beach for the first time. Barb can scramble over coral rocks easily in her flip
flops. No mossie bites to date (that we know of). Enjoyed our first catered
dinner together and developed our Vaca goals. James is an amazing leader and a
gracious host to us. We are looking forward to our first day at school.<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Message of the
Day:</span></span></i></b><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
“Although the black pearl is small, it is a special gem.”</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3640090551600348740.post-85709007163195957242013-07-04T23:07:00.000-10:002013-10-16T11:07:50.996-10:00Practicing patience with joy<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When
we signed up in for this project, I wondered if three weeks was too long. As
Sylvia knows, patience is not one of my virtues and I have never tolerated
boredom well. I can truthfully say, with these precious children, I have
practiced patience with joy, and I have not experienced one moment of boredom.
I would love to stay three more weeks and three more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This
island is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I will never
forget the wondrous beauty in these innocent, smiling children. A special
meaningful bonus was to celebrate our 50<sup>th</sup> wedding anniversary
exactly where we wanted to be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I
am not sure I have left a mark on the world, but I am sure Takitumu Primary
School has left a mark on me. So here we are, five of us left, ending our tour
of duty, soon to be back on the Air New Zealand flight bound for L.A. then on
to Boston, then on to Morehead State and, yes, on to our little island home, perhaps
to return some day. You never know!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Entry submitted by: Papa Bob<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Message of the Day: </i></b>“Service
is the greatest gift of all.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>M Bjorklundhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09655158329111563615noreply@blogger.com0