Greece Service Program Blog

Summer Camp Crete Greece

2012-01-31T16:45:00.001+05:30

Our Top Ten Service Team Experiences

2011-08-06T01:14:00.004+05:30

We celebrated and packed tonight. And we also reflected on the highlights of this experience. Here are our favorites.

1. The bachelor party. How many other teams have been lucky enough to make the guest list at a Greek bachelor party? Um, none. We danced, learned to toast (“Yia Mas!”) ate lamb cooked three different ways, and were completely embraced by Greek hospitality.

2. Greek salad. We learned that you eat it with every meal, and that the block on top of the lettuce and tomatoes really is feta cheese.

3. Greek soccer. So there we were, having a nice, quiet meal at Petousis,, down the street. Suddenly, the place exploded in a restaurant-wide unison cheer: Heraklion had just scored a point against another Greek soccer team. Pandemonium ruled—as does Greek soccer.

4. Raki. Distilled from leftover grapes, shots of this drink are what foreigners call “firewater. “ The locals claim it can be used medicinally. Right.

5. Sam and her children. We guess that not every service programs includes not only a fabulous team leader, but also that leader’s fabulous children, who translate, teach the volunteers to dance, help them shop, and join them for pizza. Thank you, Millie, Lia, Gabriella, Antony, and Alice!

6. The Handakas Hotel and its family. It’s not quite right to call it a hotel. It’s more like a town square, where the locals gather to talk, play cards, and watch the news. Then, they make dinner for their guests. And breakfast the next morning.

7. The taxi strike. OK, it was a bother. We had to drag our luggage around. But protest like this isn’t unusual in Greece. Protest signs are everywhere and about everything. It’s best not to take the media coverage too seriously. By the time we left, the strike had been “suspended” until September.

8. Dancing. Everyone dances the traditional Greek dances. Kids learn them about the time they learn to walk, and then do them with everyone else at parties, weddings, and end-of-school celebrations. We learned these dances, too. Sort of. Everyone welcomed us to the circle, though, and we got points for trying.

9. Day trips. We’ll file this under team bonding., as we remember the weekend jaunts to the ancient ruins of the palace of Knossos and to the dramatic island of Santorini.

10. The kids. They’re noisy, smart, funny, and serious about being bilingual. They are challenging and competitive. They tease and hug. They have boundless energy. And they all dance

2011-08-04T17:51:00.000+05:30

Flexibility, Flexibility

When we first got here, Sam told us we would need to be “flexible.” Now we know what she meant: “Think like a Slinky with a good heart and a sense of humor.”

This is because, as much as we might prepare, tomorrow will most likely look nothing at all like today. This is summer camp for these kids, after all, and their schedules, motivation, and temperaments are as variable as ours. Last week we had 14 fifth- and sixth-graders; today we had 3. And these included the very best student in the class, who volunteered to “translate for the others,” to the most challenged, who said, with his head in his hand, “I cannot do.”

Luckily, we knew enough by now to table the synonym worksheet and the Bingo game we had planned. Instead, we gave our star student—and her sidekick—a few challenging Wordsearch puzzles while we worked with our struggling student on basic nouns and verbs. Regular school teachers should be so lucky.

I’m not sure how our volunteers did this in the pre-Internet days. We are saved daily by quick access to online worksheets, word games, conversation starters, and teaching ideas. What did people do when they couldn’t Google “ESL?”

On the other hand, our most successful activity so far was our own inspiration: a scavenger hunt. Would these kids think it was fun to go scouring the school grounds to find out what was hidden in the corner by the teachers’ office or how much Nestea costs in the school store? Whoa. We have succumbed to their pleas and will do it again tomorrow. And that will be our last day. For now.

On Distance

2011-08-01T19:55:00.002+05:30

“You must go to Santorini!” Before we left home, almost all of us heard this. So yesterday, we took the two-hour-plus boat ride to this dramatic island. It not only may have inspired the tales of Atlantis, but also stole the show in the more recent The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.

Santorini is a fantasy island: whitewashed buildings all trimmed in blue, labyrinth streets, and 400 churches crowded with holy icons, all stacked on sheer vertical cliffs that rise as high as 1,000 feet above sea level. It is also stacked with tourists; there is very little wriggle room. The only space smaller than the distance between sunscreen-slathered tourists was the six-inch distance between our bus going up the hill and the other bus coming down.

Santorini was lovely, for sure, but it is not this Greece that drew us here. Back at the hotel Sunday night—exhausted and trying hard not to be cranky—we felt like we were coming home. After all, we danced at the party here Friday night, we know how to get around town on buses that don’t say “tour” on the side, and when we dragged into school today, it felt exactly like Monday morning. Even the kids were droopier than usual. It’s a long way between Santorini and Saint Martina School.

How Quickly They Learn

2011-07-29T17:00:00.004+05:30

In yesterday's class, Dimitris said Arnold Schwarzenegger was a "loser." This came during a small-group conversation as we looked at People magazines's portraits of the last century's 100 top American celebrities. These kids may not be too sure about the difference between "they're" and "their," but they know almost all of People's celebrities: Mohammed Ali, Jennifer Lopez, even John Lennon. American culture has clearly infiltrated Crete's middle schools.

The week has not been an exactly easy ride. The kids are restless. It's oppressively hot. We're often not very sure what we're doing. And in our class, at least, the range of proficieny is vast--from the 15-year-old girl who could probably teach the class, to the shy 11-year-old boy who struggles with basic vocabulary.

And yet. They are wonderful kids: smart, goofy, and willing to spend time with a bunch of Americans who think they can help steer them, in some small way, toward successful adulthood--without losing any of their Greek heritage.

It's a heritage of utter hospitality. As I have been sitting here in the hotel lobby, for example, one of the women who helps run the place handed me a kok, a sweet, fabulously delicious Greek treat. Other women are peeling fresh vegetables in the kitchen. They're getting ready for a bachelor party here tonight for a relative who is getting married Sunday. There will be somewhere between 150 and 200 people and a menu of lamb, chicken, and who-knows-what-else. They will dance the siganos and the haniotis, two Greek dances that Sam's daughters taught(or tried to teach)us last night. And then on Sunday, they will close the hotel down and all go to the wedding.

We'll play tourist this weekend, then return for our second week at school.

And by the way, I didn't disagree with Dimitris.

Smarter than a fifth-grader?

2011-07-27T20:56:00.003+05:30

Am I smarter than a fifth-grader? Joanna and Irini would say, "No way!" (I'm sure there is a Greek translation.)These 10- and 12-year-olds stayed with Kevin and me for their entire free period today, trying to teach us Greek words and phrases. After much head-slapping and groaning, they seem to have decided we were hopeless. "See you tomorrow!" they called as they left, which we took as both an optimistic sign and also a clear indication of their bilingual superiority.

We have now taught for three days. Every morning a bus picks us up at 8 at our hotel and delivers us to Saint Martina School, about 10 minutes away. We return to the hotel at about 1:30. In between, we teach three 45-minute classes and use one free period to recuperate.

In some ways, it is more challenging than I thought it would be. We plan many of our activities on the run. Some work; some clearly need re-thinking. And the kids vary in their English comprehension. Some can write a coherent paragraph; others have trouble with basic vocabulary.

It is also more fulfilling than I imagined (see Joanna and Irini above). The kids are eager to learn, even in this very hot weather on their summer vacations. I am also thrilled to see my daughter becoming attached to the third- and fourth-graders she and Samantha are teaching.

Meanwhile, back at the hotel, it seems nothing like a hotel. It’s more like a big house with lots of bedrooms and a big dining room. It is impossible to tell the owners from the relatives from the guests. Here in the lobby, they gather to talk, play cards, and feed us. They don’t speak much English, but they hug us and laugh with us. We hear there's a party here Friday night; I’ll keep you posted.

Kalimera (hello)!

2011-07-25T21:54:00.007+05:30

By Mary

We are a far-flung group here. Lara lives in Newfoundland on an island where she watches whales up close from her front yard. Samantha is a college student in North Carolina, but hails from, well, everywhere, currently Texas. Brenda is a California
mom who likes kick-boxing. Kevin, Maggie, and I are the Minnesota reps, telling everyone over and over that yes, it does really get that cold up there.

For the next two weeks we're going be a pretty tightly-knit group. We've come to Crete under the umbrella of Global Volunteers, an organization that sets people up on vacations that include service. We're pretty pleased that our own service--teaching English--happens to be in this tropical island just south of mainland Greece.

We've been asked to teach English here because kids can't get into college without it. The public schools only offer two hours of English a week, not nearly enough to get that English diploma. So families either have to send their kids to private schools or hire tutors--an impossiblity for many families experiencing Greece's long and severe economic slump.

It's not that any of us have any expertise in teaching English as a second language. That doesn't matter, the Global Volunteer staff has told us; you just need to help these kids become better at conversational English. So when classes started this morning, we went forth--with some guidelines, some lesson plans from former volunteers, and of course, some well-deserved trepidation.

It's a summer camp for kids in kindergarten through sixth grade. I have to admit I was secretly hoping for younger kids, but Kevin and I wound up with the fifth and sixth graders, those boisterous but often-lovable tweens. And our class includes both--16 of them (more or less, depending on the day) who, we learned, love to compete with each other in word-search games, but don't care so much for writing paragraphs. We are revising as we go along.

Our coordinator here is Samantha Pinakoulaki,a tightly organized and very kind woman of British birth, who met her husband here when she was in a touring dance company. Twenty years and five children later, she and all her kids are bilingual--and all help with the program. The kids work in the classrooms as translators--and often as managers. Thank goodness.

We're staying at the Hotel Handakas, a small hotel where the owners feed us with fresh produce from their garden just outside. Patiently, they also teach us Greek and treat us as loved family. That's pretty much how we're feeling.

University of MN on Global Volunteers program in Greece

2011-03-21T22:58:00.002+05:30

Friday, March 18th, 2011:
Last full day today. Awoke and gathered in the lobby in our usual fashion, trickling in just before or just after 8am. Had our breakfast, stared at the clouds which look full and threaten rain and discussed the previous nights’ adventures. The bus arrived on time and we trundled up the mountain one last time. By now the people of the center are used to our presence and shouts of Kali-Mera! greet our entrance. We finished some crafts, had some delicious Greek pastries provided by the center and then went up the hill to practice parade marching in anticipation of St. Spiro’s participation in the Easter parade. After a couple turns around the circle we joined in the fun and marched with them.

It is amazing, at least to me, the way these people so easily let us in to their lives, allowing us to come in, sit with them at their table, use their materials and participate in their activities – all without argument, judgement or a second thought – we were included by them. There’s a lesson in that.

After parade practice we got a surprise, a trip down the mountain a little ways to the local monastery. We paired up, held hands and proceeded down. The monastery was quiet, serene, peaceful as well as beautiful. Quite a setting there up in the mountains. We were treated to candies and a hearty ring of the bell by the nuns present. We were allowed to roam a bit and take photos, an opportunity we made good use of. After our visit we passed back through the stone archway and up the winding road to the St. Spiro center once again.

We took some more photos, had some small conversation and played basketball for a few minutes and then it was time for lunch for the people at the center. Aphrodite was particularly aware that it was time for us to say goodbye and posed for many photos with us as well as giving most of us hugs. As the bus pulled away we got yet more waves from some of the guys who had eaten quick so they could play more basketball. Though it was not a grand farewell it was a fond one.

I think we’ll all remember our brief encounter with the people at St. Spiro, from George the atomic bomb kicking whirlwind to Yanni of Canada fame to Kaite who really loved playing ball, it was a joy to share a brief moment in their lives and share in their spirit of caring and openness. Once back at the hotel we enjoyed what we’ve come to expect, a delicious and filling (or over filling) lunch, with pizza made especially for us.

In the afternoon we went our separate ways, some napping some visiting the beach or going into Gazi or to Carfore one last time for a look around and some chocolate. We then met up to travel into Heraklion for a farewell Gyro dinner. Sam cried when we gave her her winter had which would especially equip her for her next visit to Minnesota when we would all see her again. We all had taken our pictures in the hat as well for an added dimension to the gift which Brook promised to get a college made and a print sent to Sam as a keepsake of our visit. It has been an amazing week with amazing people, both Greek and American, and it has been an experience none of us will ever forget. It has been a week of surprises, both large and small, from finding out we wouldn’t be teaching in the schools, to Sami leaving, to the unexpected treat of the monastery today – there were a lot of twists and turns for a short spring break trip such as this. Through it all the kindness, patience and generosity of everyone we met and the flexibility and willingness to just go with it from the Global Volunteers team means I can confidently report we didn’t just meet our goals but we exceeded them, and we had a great time along the way.

Quote of the Day:

“Life has taught us that love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.”
Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Former Volunteer Posts AMAZING YouTube Videos!!

2011-03-14T10:45:00.000+05:30

We at Global Volunteers are privileged to work with so many wonderful volunteers, partners, and supporters each and every day.

Last week, one particular volunteer, Graham, truly knocked our socks off when he shared a 9-part video series he had created about Global Volunteers and posted on YouTube!! These videos feature the travels and experiences of numerous Global Volunteers (particularly one tight-knit group from New Jersey) and we welcome you to take a look at these exceptional videos by using the link below.

Thank you, Graham!! And for the rest of you... ENJOY!!

Global Volunteer Retrospective Video (Greece): http://www.youtube.com/user/endlessmug#p/u/46/SsFUxOcqjCY

Apokries on Crete!

2011-02-25T08:56:00.001+05:30

Are you interested in volunteering in Greece? Well pack your bags for several weeks of service work AND good times if you opt to serve in February or March. The three weeks before lent, Greeks celebrate Apokries or Carnival. It is a celebration that offers:

"a chance to escape everyday monotony and enter into a world of party, fantasy, jinks and 'kefi' (high spirits) ... a feast of dance, wine and meat before the sacrifices and fasting of Lent."

The purpose and tradition of this celebration are as follows:

In Greece the Carnival started in Ancient times, believed to be as a worship to Dionysos, the God of Wine and Feast. In the Orthodox tradition Apokries is the preparation period before Lent. Apokries means literally saying goodbye to meat - Apoxh apo kreas - apo-kreas. In Latin the roots of the word Carnival has the same meaning - 'carne' is meat and 'vale' goodbye." ~ Quotes courtesy of www.livingincrete.net

If you would like to learn more about this festival, please visit the following link: http://www.livingincrete.net/apokries.html

If you would like more details about when you can volunteer on Crete with Global Volunteers in 2011/2011, please visit the following link: http://globalvolunteers.org/greece/greece_dates.aspx

We hope to hear from you soon, and our host communities and children are eager to welcome you to their home!!

Considering Volunteering on Crete? Here's A Sneak Peek!

2011-02-20T21:32:00.000+05:30

Does the idea of volunteering abroad overwhelm you? Think it might be a bit stressful?? Have no fear! Global Volunteers' does everything possible to address the normal stress of travels and getting settled into a new community. Please read on to learn about the Orientation that all Global Volunteers take part in (yes, it is a part of every single service program!) and see an example from a 2010 team in Greece!!

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Global Volunteer's proprietary onsite orientation and team-building process focuses each team member's ability to give of themselves fully, and has been cited as one of the most valuable, if unexpected, benefits of participating on a team. Following this orientation day -- conducted by Global Volunteers local staff and host organization representatives, project leaders and consultants -- you begin work.

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Examples of Orientation outcomes, courtesy of Sam, Greece Country Manager!

Team goals were identified under the following five areas:
1) FUN
2) NEW ACQUAINTANCES
3) CHILDREN
4) TRAVEL
5) TO MAKE PERSONAL CHANGES

More speifically, volunteers identified these goals & interests:

To play
To make friends
To help others
To experience Greece
To relax
To bond with people
To teach children
To see the world
Interact with local people
To provide service
To see a different country
Meet new people (and possibly) friends
To experience working with different kids
To experience culture

Team characteristics were then identified:
• Flexibility
• Punctuality
• Cooperation
• Enthusiasm
• Helpful
• Prepared
• Respect

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If you think volunteering on Crete is right for you, please don't hesitiate to give us a call!! You can reach us at (800) 487 - 1074. You can also visit our website to request info and 'Like' us on Facebook!! Talk to you soon!

University of Minnesota Student Group to Volunteer on Crete!

2011-01-18T21:42:00.002+05:30

The University of Minnesota will be joining us for an alternative spring break this year on Crete!! We're very much looking forward to their week of service, and we encourage other univeristy groups to consider this exciting volunteer opportunity as well. Read on to learn more...

Today, students are joining our teams in greater numbers than any time in the past!

We're collaborating with universities, colleges and high schools across the country to integrate service-learning components into broad-based curricula such as:

•field experience in development and foreign aid
•direct assistance in public health and health care
•"real-world" experience in foreign language studies
•cross-cultural communication and international relations

Additionally, service programs offer the student opportunities to enhance interpersonal skills, problem-solve professional situations in an intercultural context, and enhance critical thinking skills.

Organize a group of six or more, obtain special discounts, and magnify your assistance abroad. Intact groups of six or more can join any scheduled team with spaces available. Exclusive groups of at least 12 volunteers may select non-published dates or join a formed, public team!

Contact a Volunteer Coordinator at (800) 487-1074 for more information on your 2011 student group volunteer opportunities!!

"Spring into Service" in Greece!!

2010-12-16T00:50:00.002+05:30

“Spring into Service” with Global Volunteers to receive a special limited discount offer for our March and April teams!

Four or more volunteers who apply by January 31 for any of these 28 teams in 16 countries will receive a discount of $200 off our standard service program fee, per volunteer, for one-, two- or three-week international programs or $100 off our standard service program fee, per volunteer, for USA programs. No other discounts apply.

Please encourage others to volunteer in our five fundamental project areas: education (especially promotion of girls education), labor and community infrastructure, health care, child care, and food and nutrition.

Call us at 800-487-1074 for details and we'll assist you every step of the way. Our worldwide host communities can’t wait to welcome you!!

Check out this link for more details & service program dates: http://globalvolunteer.org/special/springspecial.asp

Greece Service Program Dates, March & April Teams:
26-Mar-11 to 9-Apr-11
30-Apr-11 to 14-May-11

Reflecting on A Summer of Service: Five Superb Volunteer Teams!

2010-09-01T22:37:00.000+05:30

2010-08-20T21:31:00.000+05:30

Friday, August 20, 2010
Created by: Kathi Berkley

Quote for the day:
Author: Thoreau

'Things do not change; we change.'
(Christen Bernard)

Today was our last day teaching and what a finale!!!!!!!!!! Christen’s class made bracelets and water play – fun was had by all. Working with small groups allows her to get closer to the students. She did not have Millie today and it becomes more apparent how much the students know when they can’t rely on someone to translate.

Marcy, Kathi and Mary asked the students to sign their Global Volunteer shirts and are they ever colorful as a result. The class practiced their song for the two students who had not heard it yet. Another scavenger hunt took place. This time for letters of adjectives – using the words that are in the Silly Sentences game. After dress rehearsal for the play – hot potato was played with water balloons. This activity was welcomed by all. Anything to cool off.

The last hour was the finale. The older students sang “Puff the Magic Dragon” and then they put on a play to tell the story. All of the students performed fantastically. It should be noted that they had also made the scenery, objects and characters of the play on Wednesday. Much to the consternation of me (Kathi), the book we used had a picture of a girl on the last page and so the class was convinced Puff had a new friend. So, the script for the play included his making a new friend – a girl – and becoming happy again. Why not? Everyone loves a happy ending, right? The younger students performed their dance and were joined by the older students. Much dancing was done – more than was planned.

Everyone was given a send off and thanks were received. I, for one, and I suspect all of us, will never forget these children and will wonder what life paths they will follow. We had frustrations over the past 2 weeks, but we had more gratifying moments. Many surprises – Drakos wanting to sing the song from memory being one. Who knows what could have been accomplished had we more time.

2010-08-19T18:08:00.000+05:30

Thursday, August 19

Quote for the day:
Author: Unknown

I will make this day a happy one, for I alone can determine what kind of day it will be.
(Mary Rizzolo)

Today was another easy day with just eight students in mine and Millie’s class. We danced, sang songs, played BINGO, read “The Lion and the Deer” and colored lions. Kathy kindly let us use some of her brightly colored cardstock to make decorative fans for what seemed to be the most logical Art project for us to create. We are not quite as creative as when Lindsey was here, but we are managing.

The older class practiced for their play of Puff the Magic Dragon, had a scavenger hunt and played “what’s different”. I’m excited to see the play tomorrow as Kathy said it was coming together quite nicely and felt it was going to be really cute. Mary’s group went over colors, shapes and ABC’s. As I approached Kathy in the afternoon I saw her sincerity as she expressed how her kids did great and she was really proud of them.

Millie helped the older class for the last hour and I played BINGO and cards with my students. Towards the end of the last period I let them have free time. Perhaps towards the end of our time here, this was a good time for me to be on my own with the students. Looking back, perhaps playtime is where I found out the most about my students. Not being an expert at lesson planning and since my Greek is very limited, this is when the students and I had to find a way to communicate and perhaps benefited the most. They had to find some way to ask me to play foursquare, volleyball or ask me for whatever they wanted.

I will take this into my future classroom, because on the playground and during recess is where I have been able to work one-on-one with the children. They offered to help me clean up the classrooms and signaled to ask me questions. This is where I found it the easiest to assess their English skills where to most successfully assess and practice what they know. On the playground children asked me to sit down and look at a book with them where they pointed out animals or colors… or offered a polite “sorry” or “thank you” while playing on the playground.

Mary and Kathy ventured into Iraklion to pick up a vase that Kathy had especially made with an olive design on it, but was disappointed when a distraught employee accidentally broke the vase. The employee expressed how sorry she was and paid her back. This was not the outcome that anyone wanted, but… well, if that is the worst thing to happen this week…

We all probably have blisters on our feet from all the walking and are well nourished from the healthy food we have been eating, but it is sad to know that we are approaching on our last and final day of teaching tomorrow. Time has flown by so quickly and it is sad to know that tomorrow will be our last time working with these truly awesome kids.

2010-08-18T20:12:00.000+05:30

Wednesday, August 18
Created by: Mary Rizzolo

Quote for the day:
Author: Albert Einstein

Only a life lived for others is a life worth while.
(Marcy Berlin)

Today Christen and her class were very busy – they played Alphabets, had a scavenger hunt and colored Old MacDonald coloring books.

During 2nd hour, Millie and Gabriella taught all the children from both classes a dance. The music was great and the children seemed to enjoy dancing.

Marcy, Kathi and myself read “Puff the Magic Dragon” and taught our class the song. Later in the day the children drew characters and scenes from the story. There are some very good artists in the class.

I haven’t had to play basketball for the past 2 days since teaching Nick and some other boys how to play marbles. At least I can sit down during this game.

After lunch, Christen took a power nap on the beach and then it was off to shopping. March went swimming in the pool while Kathi and I were off shopping in Amadoura. When we walked into one store we were asked where we were from. When we said America the owner said “Ah, the 2nd one today” then he proceeded to tell us he met a Christen from Missouri. Imagine that!

Sam took us out for dinner/shopping/sightseeing in another village. The food, atmosphere and entertainment was excellent. As always, I ate too much! There was a band and dancers. They performed dances from Crete, Northern Athens and modern dances. I was sweating just watching. I can’t imagine how hot they felt in their costumes and dancing. The evening appeared to be a success.

Tomorrow is Thursday, hard to believe our time here is almost over. I will miss the great meals and how welcome everyone has made me feel. They definitely treated us like family. Sam and her children have been wonderful. I hope that we all have been able to contribute at least 1 small thing to the program here. Continued success to the Global Volunteers in Crete.

2010-08-17T20:24:00.000+05:30

Tuesday, August 17
Created by: Marcy Berli

Quote for the day:
Author: Mother Teresa

We cannot do great things on this Earth, only small things with great love.
(Christen Bernard)

Waking up to another day of sweltering heat-and off to the mines we go! Fewer children today but lost of wired, wound up kids. Staying with any one activity was near to impossible for some of the kids-boys of course! Additionally, three new kids showed up today.

Puppets were created and quite imaginatively. Marcy suggested short skits with the puppets. That went pretty well and fun was had by all.

The reading of the day was Walter The Farting Dog – audio included. The kids loved it, farts and all.

Another hit of the day, led by Mary was a serious marble game, enjoyed by the boys. Mary is definitely our athletic director. Three more days of sports Mary!

Kathy and Mary had quite an adventure walking the ancient wall. Along the way, Mary did a little “souvenir shopping” which consisted of scaling a fence for three soccer balls. You go girl!. Mary and Kathy are our fearless adventurers-scaling ancient walls and visiting ancient sites.

Christen was off for a nap at the beach. Marcy napped in the comfort of her air conditioned room and then ventured down to the beach. Perfect temperature. She also pointed out a drink that sounded like “friendly cappuccino” and was served up a cappuccino with lots of froth. Yum, hit the spot.

The highlight of dinner was dessert-ice cream/gelato.

Sam talked with us about being “replaced”-not really. She meant referring friends to Global Volunteers. She also showed us a photo album that we can order that will include a compilation of all our pictures-plus scenery shots. Dinner and talk outside was lovely.

2010-08-16T18:23:00.001+05:30

Monday, August 16
Created by: Christen Bernard

Quote for the day:
Author: Thich Nhat Hanh

Without understanding, love is an impossible thing.
(Christen Bernard)

Quote for the day:
Author: Cree proverb

Only when the last tree has died
And the last river has been poisoned
And the last fish has been caught
Will we realize that we can’t eat money.
(Kathi Berkley)

After the big holiday many of the students were absent. It was a quiet and relaxing day. The eight students present in Millie and I’s class seemed to be more engaged that they had ever been before. We had a scavenger hunt, read books, played musical chairs and pin the tail on the donkey. I told about my home town and where I am from and as a follow up activity we made US dogs. I thought this was a silly idea, but the kids thought it was a hit :)

The older class divided into groups again and one group couldn’t decide what page they were on, so they switched things up and made their lesson into a ball game. These children really seem to like games and are perhaps how they learn the most.

Mary, Kathy and I played ball in the pool after lunch while Marcy napped. After swimming we read children’s books by the pool. I went to the beach for a power nap and to write out a game plan on lessons for the week while Kathy and Mary ambitiously organized the flash card supply.

Finally we all ate dinner together and listened to Sam tell us about customs and culture here in Greece. After this Marcy went to bed after a long day, I looked up more information on the internet to use for lessons while Kathy and Mary sorted flash cards into the night.

2010-08-13T21:14:00.000+05:30

Friday, August 13
Created by: Christen Bernard

Quote for the day:
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
(Mary Rizzolo)

Just as we get to knowing each other Lindsey is back off to the U.S. Today, Lindsey had our puppet show and she arranged for the children to make us T-shirts and we made wax relief paintings.

Kathy, Marcy and Mary created a scavenger fun with their students with words written on balloons and played their usual four squares. Made the most of a teachable moment as one child said “That fun!” -- Kathy corrected saying, “That funny!”—Perhaps these situations are how we can teach kids the most.

As I went to Minoan Palace to lie on the beach and have dinner with friends, it sounds like I missed quite the send off for Lindsey and birthday celebration for Milli. Apparently there was an incredible cake and ice cream.

2010-08-12T21:12:00.000+05:30

Thursday, August 12
Created by: Mary Rizzolo

Quote for the day:
I dwell in possibility
(Marcy Berlin)

After a fun and food filled last night it was difficult to get out of bed this morning. Fortunately there were many incentives – great food, great company and great expectations.

Lindsay and Christen had a fun and busy day. There was dress rehearsal and lots of dancing. The children in their class are not only great artists but awesome dancers. Christen has it all on film. She would be wise to get their autographs now before they become rich and famous.

Day 4 of captivity:
The older children in Kathi, Mary and my class continue to be bribable with tickers. Is that an actual word? Oh well, it’s all Greek to me. All kidding aside, they are very energetic and bright individuals. The more we can incorporate our lessons into activities the better they seem to do.

Marcy has been keeping them enthralled with her wonderful story telling. She read part 2 of her story today. Will there be a sequel? You will have to stick around to find out.

Kathi has been working on short and long vowels and silent letters. She has taught the children a game called “Very Silly Sentences.” It’s a big hit! They may not understand what the scared squirrel climbs a sandwich or what the purple elephant hops the crocodile means, but neither do we. Do we? All that matters is that they are laughing and learning.

I have been working with Sofia, Nick and Drakos on basic letters and words. I am very happy with their progress. Sofia is picking up things very fast and was even helping Nick while I worked with Drakos today. Nick loves to play basketball and always asks be to play at every recess. I don’t like basketball but I like seeing the smile on his face when I say yes.

After class we ate lunch and then we did our own things. Lindsey, Christen and Alice (Sam’s youngest daughter) drew and painted by the pool. Marcy napped while Kathi and I splashed around in the pool.

Later in the day Sam, Lindsey, Kathi and I went to a Greek Target to see if we could find water color paints, and stickers for our classes.

Dinner was delicious as usual. After dinner Lindsey went to bed and the rest of us had Greek dance lessons. We had a great instructor and had lots of fun. And here I though the children were the only ones who don’t know their right from their left. Well, off to bed to recharge. Morning comes way too soon.

2010-08-11T21:11:00.000+05:30

Wednesday, August 11
Created by: Marcy Berlin

Quote for the day:
Author: Maya Angelou

Love life, engage in it, give it all you’ve got. Love it with a passion, because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it.(Christen Bernard)

Well, Sam was on the mark-by Wednesday what seemed impossible on Monday now seems totally possible! Five “so-called” teachers faced a conglomerate of children ready to learn and play. What to do? As if by magic, we have begun to figure things out, found all kinds of activities in which to engage the children and everyone is settling in.

We have been reading stories (with the assistance of our fantastic translators), playing sports, drawing murals, planning a puppet show and engaging in assorted games.

The original plan for the afternoon was for all five of us to go to Knossos. The actual activities were –two at the beach, one relaxing ad two brave souls (Kathleen and Mary) who braved the heat to visit Knossos! Well at least the rest of us will get to see the photos from their hard-earned visit.

We all shared family style dinner at Petousis. A good time was had by all – including Sam’s husband and daughter Alice who arrived for dessert. By, the way, is anyone interested in a twelve year old crocodile?

2010-08-10T21:10:00.001+05:30

Tuesday, August 10
Created by: Christen Bernard

Quote for the day
Author: Amelia Barnhardt

Energy begets energy
Light begets light
It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.
(Lindsey Rosen)

Yesterday was such a great day for so many reasons. Lindsey and I had an exciting day making mouse puppets with the younger children. We were amazed by their brilliant and brightly colored mouse puppet creations. Some kids who previously were not as engaged truly excelled in this creative activity. We were so proud of them. Today, we both noticed that students had started to talk to us more.

Eva’s mom came into our classroom today and introduced herself. She was everything I have always pictured Grecian women to look like; a knock-out in her designer dress and sunglasses. She spoke English with one of those many, but none the lacking super sexy European accents that I do so lust after….

Marcy, Mary and Kathy felt their classroom was somewhat less talkative and manageable than the day before. Lindsey and I felt the same way... I wonder if this is the children getting used to us or we are getting used to them. Right now or group is submersed in an unfamiliar language, environment and culture and I wonder who is learning more—them or us.

They broke into groups today based on their abilities and they felt like this was a wise move for them. As a whole class, they felt like this made things more manageable for them. They also expressed that they felt that many of their students could recognize and read many words, they just had trouble internalizing and knowing what they were reading---this keeps them from understanding…

It has been mentioned that Mary may have an admirer. But who can blame the “little guy” for picking up on her patience and kindness. I expect the kindness of Mary to bring this little boy out of his shell and gain self confidence.

While working with Lindsey I am constantly trying to manage my thoughts and keep up with her :)You ask me who would possibly think of making multi colored mouse puppets and spontaneously become a story teller at a gelato shop---I introduce to you Lindsey. I am thankful she is my partner as ideas are coming out of that mind of hers faster than I can write. Constantly, I have to stop myself to search for my notebook and write her ideas down, because they are simply amazing. Selfishly, I figure I will probably not have time to use all of her ideas while she is here, but I still have a week without her!! I’m jotting this stuff down while she is here!!

Lindsey and I walked through Iraklion and got lost—in fear of missing dinner time we took a cab back to the hotel. We took pictures of each other doing silly things and Lindsey taught me how to do interesting close ups… We looked at agrological features that proceeded the 16th Century as we snacked on what Lindsey said the best fruit drink she had ever had and some pretty tasty gelato. The other ladies seemed to have gotten more lost than we even did!

Once again I am amazed by the kindness of another nation. Many have told me to be careful going to a foreign country all by myself, but upon entering Greece I have experienced nothing but kindness from its people. I feel blessed to be a part of this amazing experience. With Kathy’s religious interests, Marcy’s travels throughout the world, Mary’s kindness and ability to step back and noticed children that don’t always take initiative and Lindsey’s vast amount of creativity and knowledge about teaching children. Sam’s vast travel experience and ability to manage her beautiful family while being a team and country manager---- I can tell that I have a lot to learn from these ladies. I hope I take these things into consideration---as I search deeper into myself throughout this journey.

2010-08-09T21:06:00.001+05:30

Monday, August 9
Created by: Lindsey Rosen

Quote for the day
Author: Margaret Mead

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: indeed it’s the only thing that ever has. (Kathi Berkley)

Today the Crete team had our first day of teaching English.

Mary and Kathi and Marcy led the 8, 9 and 10 year olds. They played SWAT, hitting alphabet letters, and Marcy was an ace at learning to play 4 square. Mary played a word game with one boy, telling him to draw on the board words like moon and sun.

Lindsey, Christen and Mele led the kindergarten and first graders. We began a play based on Eric Carles’ Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See? , played musical chairs and played outside. The children sang with us the first period: a name song, head, shoulders, knees and toes, and the hokie pokie. We also sand the days of the week song. We were loud, but we had fun together.

The cat and dog puppets were introduced by name and passed around during the name song. We look forward to more English learning tomorrow. (Lindsey Rosen)

Spring into Volunteerism: April Service Program!

2010-05-15T22:32:00.000+05:30

Greek Orthodox Epiphany Celebrations January 6th

2010-01-06T02:41:00.003+05:30

Greek Orthodox Epiphany January 6th 2010

The Greek Festival of Epiphany, or 'The Blessing of the Waters', is held every year on January 6 throughout all of Greece. This is the special occasion when many daring young Greek men brave the chilly waters to dive for a cross after it has been blessed by a priest and thrown into the water. For his gallantry, the first man who recovers the cross is said to have good luck throughout the coming year. The day long festival also features the blessing of small boats and ships, and later on affords entertainment, music, dancing and food to all those present.

On the stroke of January 6th, the "twelve days" of Christmas officially come to an end. This day, takes on a special meaning in Greece. Here, there is a special ceremony of blessing the waters and of the vessels that ply them.

The modern observance takes the form of a priest hurling a large crucifix into the waters. Young men brave the cold and compete to retrieve it. These days, the cross is generally attached to a nice, safe long chain, just in case that year's crop of divers is something less than desired.

After the diving, local fishermen bring their boats to be blessed by the priest.

What does all this have to do with Christmas? Orthodox belief says that it was the day of the baptism of Jesus, and that this is where the day's association with water arises.

But the observance itself may pre-date Christianity. There was, in Roman times, what was said to be a ceremony that opened the season of navigation. However, as any Greek fisherman can tell you, whatever the date of the opening of the season of navigation really is, it definitely is not January 6th, when weather can be stormy and the waters are at their coldest.

The day is also said to be the date of a festival of emperor-worship, also dating from Roman times. Possibly that, with attendant offerings for the emperor, is the root of this ceremony. Or it may also reflect a survival of the custom of giving precious offerings to sea, river, and spring spirits to assure their benevolence or halt their interference. On Epiphany, the kallinkantzari, the malicious spirits who are said to be active during the twelve days of Christmas, are believed to be banished for the rest of the year.

Epiphany is also called the Phota or Fota, in reference to the day being a Feast of Light, and it is also the saint's day for Agia Theofana.

While the biggest observance is at Piraeus, many islands and villages offer smaller versions of the event. It is definitely still a traditional holiday, performed by Greeks for themselves.

Team 69 ( October 2009)

2009-12-15T01:09:00.001+05:30

October 4, 2009

Message of the Day: (Apropos – English teachers) All People Smile in the Same Language.

Sunday morning – I was the last volunteer to eat breakfast. Guess the flight made me more tired than I thought it had.

11:00 a.m. - Introductions, including “This is my life” stories. Sam led the discussion on splitting up our group to teach two groups: Hotel Staff and Children from the Community.

Global’s Philosophy of Service discussed. We are servant-learners.

Greek language lesson followed.

Safety and Policies:

· There are earthquakes here nearly every day. We should go to parking area if one occurs.

· Volunteers should go out in pairs during free time.

· Drink bottled water.

· May take photos after third day.

· Do not give personal presents.

After lunch worked on goals of group:

· Servant Learner Goals

· Personal Growth Goals

· Teaching

· Recreation

Characteristics of Team Discussed:

· Flexibility

· Punctuality

· Supportive Care

· Sense of Humor

· Professionalism

· Communicative

· Responsibility

This team has great potential to make it all work out. People are volunteering. Plans were discussed for teaching both groups. Everything seems to be coming together. There is enthusiasm and esprit de corp. All is well. It sprinkled and Noemi saw her first rain in two years. The food served is good and so are the accommodations. The hotel grounds are lovely. We’re going to have fun.

Jeanne

October 5, 2009

Today, after traveling across half the North American continent, the Atlantic Ocean, and two-thirds of the Mediterranean Sea, I found the much heralded Iraklion Museum, home of the greatest collection of Minoan artifacts in the world, all but closed to visitors. The reason: a major renovation of the exhibit halls. True, the institution offered visitors a capsule display of its most famous objects, including the Sun Disk, Ball Jumper, and inscriptions in Linear 13. Nevertheless, I felt a major disappointment at not experiencing the regular and renowned exhibits I had read so much about.

The disappointment inspires today’s motto: MTXE - Mental Toughness, Extra Effort

MTXE was the slogan a former Illinois State University basketball coach (I can’t remember his name) used to inspire his team and motivate them to overcome adversity. MTXE - Mental Toughness, Extra Effort - was inscribed on the team’s uniforms.

After our morning meeting, we headed for a day of sightseeing in Iraklion. Everyone took the city bus. My wife, Deborah, and I disembarked and began our sightseeing with a pass through the city market. We next visited Velizelos Square followed by the Church of St. Titus. A cup of coffee, Greek style, in the church courtyard, and we were off to see the Venetian Fortress at Koule.

On our way back to Velizelos, we encountered the others in our party. We resolved to rendezvous at the Archeological Museum after lunch. Deb and I proceeded to have some terrific sandwiches and fresh orange juice at a downtown bakery.

After lunch came the disappointment at the museum. However, I must admit the temporary exhibit hall was packed with the artifacts that one sees in every textbook touching upon Minoan culture.

We finished our day in the city with a viewing of the great cathedral Ekaterina Square. Back at our headquarters, the Handakas Hotel, we got down to business about 5:00 p.m. Half of our little group worked with a handful of children honing their conversational skills. A Scrabble game seemed to be the highlight of the session - good way of building vocabulary.

With the hotel staff, just two of them, four of us worked. The session was mostly in Greek - translation back and forth - but we developed some rapport. The day closed with glasses of wine all around and a hearty dinner of beans, coleslaw, and cheese with oranges to finish.

Robert

October 6, 2009

Message of the Day: Imagination, Knowledge, Curiosity - Imagination is more important than knowledge, but curiosity is the most important of all.

We marched in single file to the buses and jumped on just like native Amoudarians bound for Knossos. We arrived to a first look at open pits and Noemi wanting us to crack open our wine. Reason prevailed, and we convinced her to wait until lunch. The site unfolded and revealed numerous partial structures, rooms, walkways, plumbing systems, and decorative pottery.

As an American where buildings in my country date to just over 200 years, a site like this always amazes me. Sir Arthur Evans’ interpretations, although a bit romantic, sparked my curiosity about what life inside that palace may have been. (Is the phrase “may have been” the pluperfect tense? We’ll have to ask Millie, Ellie, Gabriella, or Nicolas because I suspect they will know.)

Lunchtime came, and we were all hungry and ready for our vino. Rob, acting throughout the morning as our able tour guide, consulted “The Book” and led us down the road to another early structure called a Caravansery. We braved oncoming tour buses and motorcyclists riding without holding on as they buttoned their shirts as we walked around curves to find the site. There it was, but the site was closed. Our group rallied, remained flexible, and we enjoyed our lunch while sitting on the old stone steps leading to the closed Caravansery.

We walked back for a last, quick trip around the perimeter of the palace. After, Nancy, Rob and I walked up the steep hill into the town to see the houses above the main road. Bus No. 2 took us back to Iraklion and then No. 6 brought us home.

I kept thinking all day what a nice group we’ve become, and I certainly look forward to more adventures!

Deborah

October 7, 2009

Message of the Day: Tell me and I’ll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I’ll understand.

A little fuzzy-headed in the morning after an evening of great food and raki at Petousis (sp?) Restaurant. What started as dinner had soon become a party. My head eventually cleared up though, especially after finding an ATM.

We got together for a ride on the Happy Train up to Rodja. I can’t remember the name of the Monastery, but what a beautiful site it is. And the views from there are unbelievable. We were given the time to take photos and walk around a bit. Besides the photo ops, some of us ate grapes right off the vine. I might never eat fruit from the supermarket again after this. We got on the Happy Train and headed further up the hill to the Village of Rodja. It was picture-book quaint. Just what I thought a little Greek village would look like.

We got back for a lunch of stuffed tomatoes and a salad of lettuce and cabbage. I thought I wouldn’t eat again until at least Friday after eating those, but guess what? I was starving by dinner time and then ate two bowls of lentil soup! After lunch some of us stayed around here, and some took off to the beach.

But back to the “involve me” part. We are getting a lot of enthusiasm from Susana and Irini. They are so cute. We are doing role-playing with them in scenarios regarding hotel registration, etc., and they really try to absorb the information we are trying to give them. We had a new student yesterday, new to us anyway. Her name is Maria, and she has some English so she helped Susana a bit, and today we are getting another student, Paul.

Sam, her children, and the hotel staff are an amazing group of people. They have embraced us, and we have together created a little community right here in the hotel lobby. That’s pretty magical.

I think it’s safe to say we’re involved.

Noemi

October 8, 2009

Message of the Day: “Don’t you know that we never travel except around the edges of our own soul.” -Kazantzakis

Another day in paradise on the Island of Crete.

After breakfast and our morning meeting, Rob, Deb, Jean, and I headed into Iraklio to visit the Historical Museum of Crete. We took the bus to our usual stop and walked through the market, stopping at the Morosini Fountain to take some pictures. Then we went down the street toward the water and made our way to the museum.

For me, someone who would not pick a museum as a first sightseeing choice, it was a very interesting museum. We spent two hours there before walking to the bus stop to catch the bus to Amnisos. After waiting for about 45 minutes for the bus, we were off. Rob and Deb met a man named Brett on the bus that owned the Taverna Mylos in Amnisos, and he invited us to eat there.

We had a great meal with wine and a special treat of raki and fruit for dessert. We shared a good meal and good company. Deb and I wanted to walk to the beach, so we left Rob and Jean to finish the raki and settle the bill. We walked to the beach, took some pictures, viewed the landscape which was very desert-like. Then we all met at the bus stop and came back.

For our students who are all very smart, we worked on syntax exercises, making two sentences into one sentence, good structure, and had some fun with the kids doing a news report and playing newsmen.

Every day has been busy and fulfilling, and this day was no exception.

Nancy

October 9, 2009

Message of the Day: Smiles beckon acceptance, words foster understanding.

It is Friday, and we will be meeting for the fifth consecutive day with our students, our group leader, and the hotel staff (as well as their relatives and friends). We are in a happy place on the beautiful Island of Crete.

After our morning meeting, several of the volunteers went to the City Wall in Iraklion. There they also visited the market and viewed the monument for Kazantzakis. We all enjoyed the lunch, after which some of the volunteers headed to the beach, and Robert rented a car. Noemi went to town to buy reward stickers for the adult learners of English (and I must note that the adults practice their English daily at the hotel).

Brenda found a lovely shaded spot to sit where she wrote postcards and later prepared material for today’s lesson with the teenagers who would arrive at 5:00 p.m. They are interested, involved students, and it is a pleasure working with them.

Our lesson consisted of synonym development, including a crossword puzzle based on basic synonyms, presented by Deb. We transitioned to having the students use given introductory phrases and clauses in complete sentences. The students created three differently worded sentences using the given phrase/clause. The focus is English syntax.

The adult group was fully engaged in role-playing hotel-oriented dialogues.

After the lessons, we enjoyed dinner (soup, salad, cheese, fruit), and then Sam held our evening meeting. This night, she explained for us basic Cretan customs, including the process from engagement to marriage, funerals, name days, holidays, etc.

The information was interesting and useful and helped broaden our understanding of the wonderful people with whom we interact each day.

Brenda

October 10, 2009

“It’s a good thing there’s three of us.”

That quote started the adventure Jeanne, Nancy, and I had in Santorini. We got up early today, had our breakfast, and went off to catch the ferry, the Flying Cat 4. The ride there was very nice. A gentleman sitting next to me named Mike started a conversation by asking if my final destination was Santorini. During our chat, he suggested we visit Kamari because it would be less crowded and souvenirs would be less expensive. Apparently, he spends a lot of time in Greece. I though he was a native, and it turns out he’s from Sweden! Imagine my surprise.

When we got to Santorini, we looked around for some indication that there was someone to take us to the Olympia Hotel. We asked around, and one of the gentlemen said he’d take us. He takes Jeanne’s bag and goes off with it. That’s when Nancy said the now famous quote - “It’s a good thing there’s three of us.” That gentleman was the first of a couple of characters we encountered. We waited a few minutes, then the driver, Artemis (character number two) asked us to follow him, and he drove us to the hotel. What a beautiful little property. George, the manager, was very nice and welcoming. The room was very nice and had a view of the White Dome in the center of Fira, the town. We put our things down, and off we went. We took a bus for the equivalent of about a quarter mile, and we were there. We could have walked to the center of town!

What is the deal with those change/ticket guys on the bus? (The rest of the characters) Once you get to the destination, they literally start pushing you out the door. And don’t ask them a question! I had to remind Nancy that they had not taken our conversational English classes yet so their English was limited. She asked one of them if there were three seats for us, and he ripped off three tickets, charged her for them, we gave her our coins, he took the coins... It eventually worked itself out, but it was quite confusing.

What a beautiful town Fira is. We walked around for a bit and had lunch at a café overlooking the water. I can’t begin to count how many times my breath was taken away by the views. We bought a couple of things, then enjoyed a good, light lunch of sandwiches and soon were working our way to the bus station for the bus to Oia. Mike had recommended and I’d read how the best sunsets can be seen from there, but really, can there be a bad place to see the sunset when you’re in Greece?

We got to Oia and there were more breathtaking views. We walked around taking many, many photos, bought art and souvenirs, and found the Pelekanos Restaurant, a place high enough to see the sunset without our view being obstructed. We ordered a bottle of wine, white, and had a delicious dinner of salad and pasta while listening to Andrea Bocelli, watching the sun set, and Nancy saying a nice toast. Another magical moment in Greece.

We then walked back to where the buses were and took one back to Fira. We decided to walk back to the hotel from the bus station that time. Turns out it’s three stops from the hotel. After a long day, it was a bit of a walk, but we made it. I have to give my appreciation here to Jeanne. She is quite the trooper considering she’d had knee surgery two months ago. She kept up with us every step without complaint. I want to be just like her when I grow up. Nancy and I went to the lobby for a nightcap, and that ended a perfect Saturday in Santorini.

Noemi

October 11, 2009

Today we got up early, had a good breakfast at the hotel, and off we went to Kamari. What a great little town. It is on the east end of the island and has a really great beach side promenade. We walked around, shopped, took photos, and signed up for a tour of Ancient Thira. That sounded like a treat, especially the part where we got to go up the zig-zag roads all the way up. Not for the queasy, that’s for sure!

We thought it would be like Knossos up there, where it would plateau and we could walk around, but no. It involved hiking up steep steps, up and up and up. Jeanne stayed behind under a shaded pergola and waited for us. There’s no way we would have even let her try that hike. It was very hot and very steep in places. Nancy and I took a break to eat an orange under a tree. I dropped some seeds in the hope that I may return to find an orange tree growing there. If any of you get there before me, it’s in front of the center part of the Ancient City, by the Agora, you know, the ancient shopping mall.

The climbing wouldn’t’ have been bad if we knew what we were looking at. The only thing that looked like anything was the Early Christian Basilica. We would have been able to tell what it was without the sign, but that was about it. Rob, we wished you’d been there to guide us. We had less than an hour, so we went as far as we could, took some photos, and worked our way back down with ten minutes to spare.

Back by the beach, we walked a bit and decided on lunch at the Café Classico. We each had a salad - Nancy had the tuna, and Jeanne and I had the salmon. The salmon salad had smoked salmon, radicchio, orange cubes (slices), capers, lola, and rocket - a lettuce and other greens, respectively. I made friends with one of the cats by feeding her smoked salmon, and Jeanne made friends with the waiter, Robert, chatting with him about his being from Poland. He gave us ice cream for dessert, free of charge. We had mango, strawberry, and what tasted like vanilla ice cream with Oreo cookies. Thank you, Jeanne.

We then went to the bus stop and back to the Olympia Hotel. George was there to welcome us and ask about our day. We sat for a bit then Artemis took us to the port. That was an adventure - driving on the wrong side of the road to pass a car, passing a couple of donkeys, hairpin turns, and going through a stop sign. Apparently, that was only a suggestion. However, seeing water on both sides while sitting in a moving car was a treat.

It was good to be back in Iraklio, but I have to be honest and say I could have stayed there another two days. From beginning to end it was a great weekend.

Jeanne and Nancy, thank you for making my first time in Santorini an unforgettable experience.

Noemi

October 12, 2009

Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family; whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.

We are in a unique situation for Americans because we have the privilege of spending two weeks sharing the living room peopled with a lively, friendly family from Crete. This family, as well as the extended family, of Demetrius and Susanna let us be a part of them that shows us what life in Crete is really all about. As I find myself getting, sometimes, frankly panicky that I might “miss” seeing parts of the Paradise I find myself in, I must remember that all of Crete is right here in this living room. I’m grateful to them for sharing so much and making us a part of their lives for these two weeks.

After an amazing weekend of touring much of Crete with Rob, I struck out again with the women of our group for Agio Pelagia, Fodele, and Rethymno. We drove westward with only a short bit of confusion finding the correct entrance for our destination. Agio Pelagia gave Nancy her first challenge with driving the switchback roads of Crete that lead to the sea. With only a bit of hesitation and uncertainty in how to proceed she soon gained confidence and was careening around curves faster than the natives. In the back seat, Brenda, Noemi, and I clutched each other fearing for our lives a couple of times. (Just kidding.) Jean proved to be an excellent navigator, one even Rob would appreciate. (He’s a tough critic of navigators.)

We moved on west to Fodele in hopes of touring the pottery factory. Much to our disappointment, the factory closes on Mondays. Noemi was perhaps the most disappointed because she was very much looking forward to seeing this site. She rallied along with the rest of us, and we enjoyed our stroll down the village street talking with the rather assertive shopkeepers who encouraged us to purchase their wares. And some of us did. Brenda is now the proud owner of a handmade beautiful, woven top. This town also was home to an El Greco Museum and a small church. Jeanne, who is an El Greco fan, sat through the video twice!

It was then time to tour Rethymno, so we headed out of town and down the expressway further west. Rethymno turned out to be a bustling port town with a very nice beach. We were, by then, hungry and stopped at one of the restaurants facing the water for a hearty lunch, some beer, and wine. Another good day in Crete. We walked through the old town section purchasing small mementos for people back home and felt encouraged and happy by our camaraderie. We all expressed how hard it will be for us when this experience ends.

Well, this day was winding down, and we headed back to our Handakas Family knowing everyone would be there waiting for their English classes. Sam’s children continue to surprise both Brenda and me with not only their English skills, but their general level of knowledge and their cooperative spirit. We are all lucky to be included in this family, if only for these two weeks. The night time atmosphere is full of fun, conversation, good food - happy family times together.

Deborah

October 13, 2009

I noticed as I looked about the room that today’s English lessons presented an especially diverse and colorful scene. I sat with Maria poring over a Greek cookbook. She commented on the recipes, gave me some of her own, and offered various and sundry kitchen tips.

Nancy perched next to me, glued to a chess board with Nico. He instructed her in the intricacies of tournament chess. Brenda seemed to be all over the place. I saw her out beyond the swimming pool conducting a very private lesson. Later she was conversing with the students seated around a table in the hotel lobby. Deborah talked with Paul and Dimitrie together, and later on helped Paul one-on-one with vocabulary. Noemi and Jean taught phrases to Susana and Irini. All four bubbled with good humor.

Our “truth” for the day came to mind. “In teaching you cannot see the fruit of a day’s work. It is invisible and remains so for maybe twenty years.” Jacques Burzan (?)

As for today’s tourism, the team split up. Nancy, Jean, and Brenda hit the road and drove to Agio Nikolaos. They made intermediate stops at Malia and an exhibit of DaVinci just east of Iraklion.

Deborah, Noemi, and I took the bus to Skalani and the Boutari Winery. I have enjoyed some Boutari wine in Chicago but never so much as the Fantaxometocho and Skalani we sampled in the tasting room. We bought a bottle of Fantaxometocho and made about an hour’s work of it as we gazed out at the beautiful landscape. A fine lunch in a Skalani taverna capped our outing. Our lunch included a rabbit stewed in onions, the village specialty.

We returned to the hotel in time for a short nap before getting to work with our students.

Robert

October 14, 2009

Poem, author unknown

Laugh a little - sing a little

As you go your way!

Work a little, play a little

Do this every day!

Give a little - take a little

Never mind a frown.

Make your smile a welcome thing

All around the town!

Laugh a little - love a little

Skies are always blue!

Every cloud has silver linings,

But it’s up to you!

After a usual breakfast and our journal/business catch-up, Rob, Deborah, Nancy, and I took off on an adventure. Noemi and Brenda elected to stay home, do laundry and catch up on everything.

Rob, our American driver, was acquiring the mind of a Greek motorist behind the wheel. (Read: He wasn’t afraid to pass large vehicles.) Deborah, Nancy, and I were the navigation committee. We traveled easterly on a four-lane highway past the airport and soon turned south towards the fertile mountain plateau of Lasithi. We explored the village of Andou, the ancestral home of Sam’s husband. Took pictures of a Greek gentleman in front of his store. He thought we were Germans. Then to the town of Krasi with the famous plane tree aged over 2000 years. At Apmi Café Nancy and Deborah enjoyed freddos, small Greek coffee for Rob.

Our first monastery was Monastery Agios in Kraustallenin. Lovely. Although this region is noted for windmills, we only saw one that was working. Still windmills were photo stops. The ascent to the plateau was a white knuckle one with acute “Z” turns every fifty feet. The scenery was beautiful. The olive trees growing at the highest of heights. They appeared as large rounded scoops of pistachio ice cream from a distance.

Lunch was the billboard special at Kri Kri - Souvlaki with potatoes, Greek salad, tzatziki, and rosé wine. Souvlaki was beef on a spit. We ordered a second pitcher of wine. It was good! Our waiter’s name was Pericles. I think he was disappointed that we didn’t stay for coffee. There were many heavy-laden fruit trees in this area.

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary (Kena) was our last stop. This building is dedicated to the Birth of the Virgin. It is one of the most holy monasteries of Crete. The architecture is Byzantine, and it was built from the 9^th to the 12^th centuries. A new section had a plaque labeled “2004.” It was originally fully frescoed with beautiful scenes of the life of Christ and the Virgin. These frescoes were executed by a competent Cretan painter in the 12^th century.

A special painting entitled Virgin and Child is on the church’s iconastasis. It was executed by an unknown Cretan painter in the 18^th century. This Holy image is considered to be one of the most miraculous on the island. It had been held by the Turks for several centuries. When returned, it came with its original chain. This chain is said to heal health problems if it is wrapped around the affected area. There were four older nuns who seemed to be in charge.

We arrived home around 4:00 p.m. We rested before our 5:00 p.m. classes. Brenda and Deborah worked with the children, Nancy continued learning the ABC’s of competitive chess, Noemi conversed with Maria for combined Greek and English classes. Rob and I worked with Susana, Irini, and Paul on problems sometimes encountered by the hotel staff. Alice (age 5) joined in the games with Paul and Noemi.

The dinner/dancing program in the mountains was aborted because of a threatened storm so we went back to Petousis for a delicious dinner.

There was dancing after dinner. Sam and Millie do a professional Greek dance. Deborah and Nancy are no “slouches” either!

It was another fulfilling day. We have a good team and a great caring leader. All of our students, young and older, are our special joy. It’s camaraderie. It’s fun. It’s love.

Jeanne

October 15, 2009

Quote: If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.

After a shaking start for the day, the day started with bright sunshine and warm weather, just like the 12 preceding days on the Island of Crete. We started with our morning meeting and journal reading after which Rob, Deb, Jeanne, Noemi and I started out on our mountain journey in the car. After taking a little time to map out a route, we were off.

Our first stop was Arolithos, a traditional Greek village and hotel that is made up as a tourist attraction. It is where we would have gone the night before for our Greek dinner and dance show had it not been for a storm in the mountains. It was a beautiful place, and I think we all enjoyed it. Our next stop was Tylissos where there was a beautiful church, olive tree groves, and an ancient archeological site that we couldn’t find.

Back on the road, we weaved our way up the mountains with very rocky cliffs and rocks above our head. Our next destination was Gonyes where we stopped on the crest of a hill to take photos of the valley below. We all noticed on the wall below the church the letters “KKE” with a hammer and sickle which represent the Communist party. We were wondering about it. Nicos told us that the Communist party got a small percentage of the vote in the recent elections. At Gonyes we stopped for Greek coffee which Noemi said was the best she had had in Crete. Then on to Anogeia which Sam had told us was the vendetta town, and we all noticed that all the highway signs in the area were full of bullet holes. We went on down the hill now through the towns of Axos and Perama then up to the new highway 75 and back to the hotel around 2:00 p.m.

After lunch, I had no takers to join me for one last swim in the Cretan Sea. The water was wonderful, and it was great to unwind in a peaceful place. Then back to the hotel to work with our students.

Nicos kept me very busy with the chess tournament. Everyone else was very engaged with their students. Rob introduced tongue twisters to Antony, and it was fun actually that Antony was able to do them. It seems to me that all the volunteers have worked very hard to help the students learn and have fun activities. Also the students are working very hard and are willing learners. I am wondering who is learning more - students or volunteers.

As our teaching session came to an end, I started noticing lightning coming from what I think was northeast. We had a real thunder shower and we lost electricity temporarily. It was our first rain since being here for 12 days. After a wonderful dinner of Moussaka, I think it was an early night for most of us.

Every day a new adventure. We have all come together as a group. I have made new friends since being here, friends that I will miss very much when I go home.

Nancy

October 16, 2009

Our journey ends but with the building of a new bridge of international understanding.

We began our day with a leisurely breakfast and conversation, after which Sam conducted our morning meeting. Sadness about leaving Crete tomorrow is palpable. I will go to Amoudara today, an easy walk, while the more athletically capable will walk the hills of Gazi.

There is a strong wind today, as there was two weeks ago when the previous group of Global Volunteers was preparing to leave. It’s as though an ancient Greek myth has been reborn for the volunteers to usher them back to the States, the wind at their backs for a smooth and speedy trip.

The group spent the afternoon packing, then relaxing. A few took siestas. Soon the students will be here. After instruction, we will all participate in a farewell party. It will be bittersweet.

Our experience with the people here in Crete has been nearly magical. We will leave with fond memories of the students, the adults, the hotel staff, and the colorful towns we visited. We hope our contributions involving conversational English and American traditions have been as rewarding to the participants as their contributions have been to Global Volunteers.

Brenda

2009-04-25T01:12:00.000+05:30

YIASAS FILI MOU!!!!!

Hoping that each and everyone of you are well…Things here in Greece are as good as always, we now have two teams arriving for our Spring program in the county schools, a foundation that many of you have been apart of .

Summer Camp 2009

Friday 12th June will be the last day of school here in Gazi. Monday 15th is the start of our very successful Summer Camp. This year we will have five teams, the last team ending in August. As you can imagine and from the numbers of children taking part over the last two years we are expecting a record number of students to sign up this year ( 2007 - 230 students, 2008 - 320 students).

The success of this camp has now reached the ears of many small villages in the County and students will travel up to 30 km to join our Volunteers. No experience is necessary just the ability to speak English and a love of children. The summer camp is very informal, teaching the students English using games, songs, theatre and outdoor activities. It takes place in a primary school which has class-rooms, blackboards, a large play ground, T.V and C.D players. There is also access to balls of all kinds, hoops and jump ropes.

What are you waiting for?

We need YOU!!!! With the larger number of students we need more Volunteers. It would be a real shame to have to turn students away… Please join us here in Crete to continue expanding the chain and give the students a Summer to remember….

Thanks,
Sam.

2009-04-12T03:29:00.000+05:30

A TRADITIONAL EASTER IN GREECE

Easter Customs

These are customs related to the religious holiday of Easter which is the biggest celebration of the Orthodox Christians and the one richest in folklore. The word “Pascha”, Easter in Greek, stems from the Jewish “Pasah” which means “Passover”. Jewish people celebrated “Pasah” to commemorate their liberation from the Egyptians and the passage of the Red sea, while Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ the Saviour and the passage from death to life. The corresponding Greek word for “Pascha” is “Lambrí” (Brightness) because the day of the resurrection of Christ is a day full of joy and exhilaration.

2009-04-12T03:09:00.000+05:30

Mrs.Sarakosti

Many of the traditions that bond the generations together occur during the Easter feast. Easter is the most sacred and celebrated of all of the Greek holidays. It begins with a 40-day fast, of the 40 days, one week is chosen for the complete fast, during that time only natural foods are eaten. No meats, dairy, fish, poultry or dishes that are prepared with these foods can be eaten. Shellfish can be eaten, however three days a week are meatless days during the remaining weeks of the fast. During Holy Week complete fasting is to take place. Palm Sunday, which is the first day of the Holy Week, is a day when only fish and fish courses are served.

Long ago in order to count the days people used to draw Mrs.Sarakosti. They didn't put a mouth on her face because she represented the 7 weeks fast period before Easter. Her hands are tangled because of the many prayers. She used to have seven legs, one for each week of the Sarakosti. Each Saturday they cut one leg of her. In Chios (a Greek island), people cut her last leg on Holy Saturday and they put it into a dry fig. They mixed this fig with some others and the one who managed to find it, it would bring him luck.

2009-04-12T03:05:00.000+05:30

Easter is a moveable holiday. Its celebration falls on the first Sunday after the full moon of the spring equinox. All over the country a plethora of customs and traditions are observed during the week prior to Easter (Holy Week).

2009-04-12T03:01:00.000+05:30

Thursday

The preparations for the celebration of the Resurrection start on Holy Thursday. On that day housewives traditionally prepare tsourekia (sweet buns resembling brioche) and colour eggs with special red dyes. Ever since antiquity the egg symbolises the renewal of life and the red colour symbolises the blood of Christ. In the past, people used to place the first red egg on the icon stand of the house in order to cast out evil spirits. In some villages they used to mark the head and the back of small lambs with the red dye used for the dyeing of the eggs. They also used to keep one of the big round Holy Thursday loaves at the icon stand in order to protect the members of the family from spells.

Eggs are dyed red

2009-04-12T02:51:00.000+05:30

Friday

Friday is the most sacred day of the Holy Week, the day of the culmination of the passion of Christ with the deposition from the cross and Christ’s burial. Because it is a day of mourning, housewives do not do any house chores, avoiding even cooking. Women and children go to church to decorate the Epitaph (Bier of Christ) with flowers they collect or buy. In the morning of Good Friday, Christ’s Burial is reenacted in church and in the evening the Epitaph procession takes place

Children decorate the shrine

The parade of the shrine through the town.

2009-04-12T02:40:00.000+05:30

Saturday

On Easter Saturday morning, preparations start for the festive dinner of the night of the Resurrection and housewives cook “maghiritsa” (a tripe and herbs soup). Shortly before midnight, people gather in church holding white candles which they light with the “Holy Light” distributed by the priest. When the latter chants “Christ is risen” (Christós Anesti), people exchange wishes and the so-called “Kiss of Love”. With the “Holy Light” of the candles they thrice make the sign of the cross on the door post over the front door of their houses for good luck. Then they allgather around the festively laid table, they crack red eggs and feast on the traditional “maghiritsa”.

Midnight mass Easter Saturday….Families gather at the church and at the strike of midnight light their candles and exchange wishes….Firework desplays then take place ( In Crete this is accompanied by the shooting of bullets from guns into the air….Balotyes)

Maghiritsa (Tripe soup)

2009-04-12T02:10:00.000+05:30

Sunday

On Easter Sunday morning, in many parts of the country lamb is prepared on the spit. From as early as 6am. In other regions, the meat for the Easter table - lamb or kid - is roasted in the oven. There is a festive atmosphere everywhere and people eat, drink and dance usually until late into the night.

Lamb on the spit

Breaking of red eggs

Kindergarten Summer Camp 2008

2009-01-31T20:41:00.000+05:30

September Team 2008

2009-01-31T20:38:00.000+05:30

Friday, October 3, 2008

2009-01-31T20:26:00.001+05:30

Submitted by Shirley Saint-Leon

“What would Theseus say?”
- Shirley Saint-Leon

We are surrounded by bumper stickers, bracelets, etc. that ask the question “what would Jesus do?” Theseus was a great Greek leader. As I reflected on our experiences I asked myself “what would Theseus do?”

Theseus would first begin by reminding us that Garrison Keillor notes that the children of Minnesota’s famous Lake Woebegone are all above average – but T* would assure us that our Minnesota 6 (Harry, Shari, Dean, Carol, Jenny, and Sally are way above average.

He would tell Milly that is she can’t get into the white jeans she brought with her to Crete she should give up all thoughts of buying herself a 3-zipper white spandex mini-skirt.

He would encourage Susan, Gil and Shirley to think beyond mere bank failures and the stock market chaos (and the fears this might generate) to look instead at the joys and niches Art has brought into their lives – Art will endure, money may not.

He would tell Jackie how special she is – children adore her; she can live comfortably among us older folks and fit right in; she has a rare gift as a journal writer. And that she makes all of us so glad to know her.

He would tell Lois to go to bed and sleep tight – and quietly.

He would tell Kathie that it’s ok every now and then to let her hair down.

He would tell Sam that she is a born leader who guides her flocks in their efforts to wage peace and international understanding. He would add that “there is no –ISH about it.”

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

2009-01-31T20:19:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Lois Wellendorf

“In matters of style, swim with the current. In matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
- Thomas Jefferson

Students in our school, Katikis Primary, say it is “Happy Month Day.” The children appear to be so happy every day that I think it should be called “Happy Month Day” every day. Kathie and I are greeted each morning with many children smiling, waving, and trying very hard to say something in English to us. We are visiting the 3rd through 6th graders. The English teachers, John and Evie, teach English classes in the main building and the temporary classrooms. School has just started for this year so the teachers do not know the students names and they tell us this makes it very hard for them. The third graders are learning their English alphabet and have studied the letters A through P. They are learning words like T-shirt, trousers, and hat. They were very excited to see their new workbooks and quickly put them in their backpacks which looked like they weighed a ton. They carry all their books, supplies, and snacks with them from class to class. They are in class, then take a 15 minute break, class, then break, class, then break, etc. We had the pleasure of visiting with a number of high school students today. Today was “walk day.” There was no school for them today so they visited our school where they had attended last year.

During our school day, the rest of our group was visited at the hotel by Matina Skoulas who had lived in Long Island, NY for a period of time. She now lives and teaches here in Crete. She discussed the educational system, private schools, etc. They found her very interesting and knowledgeable. Matina brought a pastry called Kaletschio???? from the Alada’s Bakery to share with us. Delicious! Tomorrow they will be visiting a traditional Cretan village called Anogia (Anogeia).

The afternoon was spent taking care of the daily or weekly chores such as spending time on the computer, doing laundry, catching up on lost sleep, shopping, a walk on the beach, etc. Wow! What a way to spend an afternoon.

How do you describe an evening of dining and dancing on a mountain top? Sam took us to beautiful place called Arolithos located high on a mountain and the view was spectacular. It was the perfect place for taking pictures of our group with the breathtaking scenery in the background. After about a half an hour, we were seated on the upstairs balcony overlooking the band and dance floor. A delicious dinner was enjoyed by all. The band consisted of a Keyboard, Lyre, and Boozooki. Sam point out when the man playing the Lyre sings, he doesn’t play, and when he plays he doesn’t sing. The three men and three women in costumes from Northern Greece were dancing to the Greek music and bright colored traditional costumes. The second set of dances costumes were from Crete. Jackie, Jenny, Susan, Sally, and Milly joined the dancers on stage and danced the same steps Sam’s children taught us at the hotel. Three ladies in red costumes danced a modern dance such as is done in the Boozooki clubs.

As we were waiting for our taxi’s the goats were coming down the mountain to be milked. They are milked by the shepherds early in the morning and then return on their own back up the mountain.
How do you end a perfect evening? The sound of bells tinkling in the moonlight

Sunday, September 28, 2008

2009-01-31T20:13:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Milly Fetchin

“Change and growth take place when a person has risked himself and dares to become involved with experimenting with his own life.”
- Author Unknown

What a perfect beginning to a wonderful Sunday.

An open door with a slight breeze, Bocelli on my personal CD player and a little gray kitten playing with my feet. Everyone who was going to Santorini was present at 8:05 AM (our agreed upon departure time). Those who were not planning to go were Shari, Harry, Lois, and Kathy. Susan had planned to go but was not feeling well so she felt it advisable to stay back. We missed them all – we are now a family in a foreign land and miss any members who are not with us.

The ferry, the Flying Cat 4 took 2 hour to get to Santorini. The ride was smooth and uneventful to we played Rummy, ate, talked and time passed quickly.

The bus ride upon arrival was a very steep climb with several switch backs but did not take too long to get to the top.

Our first stop was Pyros – for one hour of shopping and pictures – somehow Jenny got back to the bus without her camera case – Jackie went back to look for it but it was not found.

Walking anywhere around Santorini requires concentration because of the rock steps and the slippery marble walkways especially wet which it was Sunday because of rain in the afternoon.

I want to take this opportunity again to thank Dean for his assistance in getting several of us down from the rocks after the picture-taking in Pyros.

Our guide was very informative and if one is able to retain in formation – you could learn a lot from her. One of the most interesting things would be how she got into the skirt she had on (tight white spandex with 3 zippers).

It was interesting that Jenny, Jackie, and I went off the beaten patch to take some shots and later Jackie found a picture in a shop of the very location that we had discovered to take our pictures. She bought that picture.

All in all, in spite of the rain, it was a great experience and provided us with memories to last a lifetime. We visited three locations on Santorini with shopping and photo opportunities in each – it was a long day and we were tired but satisfied with our decision to do this day trip – well worth it. Let all who agree say yea – opposed say no – the yeas have it I’m sure.

Friday, September 26, 2008

2009-01-31T20:09:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Shari Schindele

“Never doubt that a small group of citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
- Margaret Mead

Friday marked the end of our first week of volunteering in the schools on Crete. It was an interesting day, offering a variety of experiences. For example, some of us missed having eggs for breakfast, so I took a poll and learned that our group would consume fourteen eggs if Dimitris would prepare them for Saturday breakfast. We learned that eggs had been missing from our breakfasts because Dimitris only buys very fresh eggs and none had been available. Much to our surprise, though, they appeared during our four-course lunch: salad of lettuce and tomatoes, a fried egg, soup, and pears.

Shortly after breakfast, the St. Marina’s afternoon teaching group left for Knossos by bus. They returned by cab in time for lunch and wishing for naps. Meanwhile, the morning teaching groups were off to their schools.

Millie reported that her morning with the 3 ½ to 4-year-olds was wonderful—especially since she was asked for an encore presentation of “Itsy Bitsy Spider.”

Carol’s group worked with yellow. The five-year-olds dipped a lemon half in yellow paint and stamped lemon figures on paper. Picture it: one lemon, twenty-one five-year-olds, and yellow paint.

Lois and Kathy’s students approach them on the playground and say, “My name is…” or “How are you?” or they wait to see if Kathy and Lois can remember their names. One of the recipes for their daily treats—yes, they get daily treats AND recipes—called for raki. Today, they each received a bottle of Raki “for the cookies.”

Harry and Dean learned today that their conversation activity of “Two Truths and a Lie” was an even bigger hit than they realized. Students met them at the gate when they arrived and said they’d played the “game” the night before with friends. They also learned that the more seniority a teacher has, the fewer hours she teaches. For example, the physics teacher now teaches sixteen 45-minute periods per week—less than three hours per day. A beginning teacher teaches twenty-five periods per week—3 ¾ hours per day. The physics teacher was shocked at the schedule for American teachers. Dean and Harry have been asked to talk at next week’s faculty meeting on the topic of the American education system.

The afternoon group was surprised to see that there are fewer students in their after-school program on a Friday. We didn’t mind, of course, and the day was fun.

Susan was delighted to see “provocateur” Katarina soften up a bit, and she was also happy to see Costa lighten up and smile.

Jackie received an unexpected hug and kiss from Nick—which brought tears to Sally’s eyes at the genuine affection reflected in his actions.

Jenny convinced Thomasin to draw something other than dragons although he incorporated those assigned shapes and body parts into his dragons. After awhile, she had him labeling the drawings and reviewing the vocabulary orally.

Gil and Shirley manned the “portrait studio,” where Gil continued drawing individual portraits of the students to their absolute pride and delight.

And I received my second work of art from Katerina today—Katerina who sidled up to my table and laid the folded-up drawing in front of me and then moved away. Playing Bingo and drawing shapes and “house” vocabulary with Anna while she earned stickers was another highlight for me.

The morning teachers engaged in a variety of afternoon activities including beach walking and shopping. When we had all returned to Hotel Handakas, we had social time pool side (and in the pool) and lots of card playing—Bridge and “May I,” a Gin-Rummy-like game taught by Jenny.

These are snippets of our first week that do not convey the delight and care we feel for the students. What we have seen through all of our experiences this first week of volunteering is that even though our situations in the classrooms and during free time are very different from what we encounter at home, we can make progress in building relationships with the students and with each other. Too, we can make progress—both baby steps and bigger steps depending on our teachers’ comfort levels—in conversing in English and a little Greek with students of all ages.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

2009-01-31T20:01:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Sally Deke

“A day well spent – to have lived, loved, learned, and laughed.”

This morning’s gray, cloudy beginning turned into a beautiful sunny day. We had a brief morning meeting and the AM teams left for school, while the PM team members went into town, read by the pool, relaxed and rested, then left for St. Marina School at 1:30.

Our fourth day with children age’s six to ten – approximately – went well. We’ve all adjusted to a slightly chaotic time, since we meet with our students during a casual recreation home work time. The students waiting outside always seem happy to see us. We begin each day with name tags and a song. Today we had a large group activity with all students playing Bingo. After this the seven teachers took places around the room marking our various activities including some using the names of shapes and colors. We added student drawing to our activities today, which the children seemed to like. We’re fortunate to have an artist among us – Gil – and he has been putting drawings on the blackboard that go along with our theme for the day. Today he also drew sketches of individual children, which they LOVED. Some students had us tape their portraits on their shirts or the wall; they proudly took them home. It was a successful (and exhausting) afternoon.

During this time some of the AM teachers took the bus into Heraklion and some purchases were made – two brave souls – Carol and Harry – even went for a swim. We hear it was chilly.
The highlight of the evening was dancing. Sam’s four oldest children modeled Greek dancing and taught us six-step and twelve-step dances. We had varying degrees of success, but we should all be able to dance when we go out for dinner next Wednesday evening. It was another happy day in Crete.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

2009-01-31T19:59:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Susan Jensen

“A Person needs a little madness, or else they never dare to cut the rope and be free.”
- Nikos Kazardzakis

After an exhilarating (and a bit exhausting) first day, the team rallied after breakfast to plan for the next few days. Shari suggested we have some topics and vocabulary words in our pockets with some general goals for what we’d like to accomplish in our 2 weeks.

Sally brought name tags & I had some magic markers, so we decided to start with basic introductions & ask kids to make their own tags. This worked well—.since kids wandered in at different times. When new ones came in, kids would clue them in on the drill, and even help with English spellings.

We started with a group activity, singing Head & Shoulders, Knees and Toes, led by our own diva, Jenny. Resident artist, Gil, created a masterful self portrait on the blackboard, which Jenny labeled for the kids. Almost all the kids joined in & even wanted to pick up the pace. Jackie was a big hit again with Constantina, Maria, & Vassilly, at the Bingo board. Luckily, after a bit Maria II spelled her & wanted to take over as caller. Shirley & Gil were going gang busters with Nikos & Dimitri, working on colors & numbers & simple addition, while Sallie had them picking up U.S. geography with a U.S. map puzzle. I can vouch for Sallie’s success, since I switched stations with her, and my guys, Nikos & Dimitris were actually saying some of the state names as they worked the puzzle!

Jenny & Shari also had a lively group playing bingo & working with numbers. I played a Brown Bear, Brown Bear game with a rotating group, doing lousy impersonations & animal sounds. My friend Dimitris was so excited when he guessed the animal, & quickly produced a more authentic sound for the animal—his favorite was snorting like a pig.

We ended with a final round of Head & Shoulders, to the amusement of a couple of parents picking up their kids.

During free time, I swam a few laps in the pool, joined later by Dean. We both are proud to be identified now as blue-footed boobies.

Had I known what a feast awaited us in the evening, I would have swum a few more laps. Sam had arranged for a Greek banquet—calamari, cheese balls, tzatziki sauce stuffed grape leaves, fried zucchini, and vegetable fritters, with the grand finale of loukoumades & a nice tonic of raki to ensure a good night’s sleep. A perfect ending for a great day.

Monday, September 21, 2008

2009-01-31T19:55:00.000+05:30

Submitted by Dean LaFrenz

“What we have done for ourselves dies with us. What we have done for others & the world lives on and is immortal.”

Breakfast arrived early today as some were still experiencing “jet lag” and others were still recovering from the celebration of Harry & Shari’s 45th wedding anniversary.

There was a degree of anxiousness as we anticipated our first day as a true Global Volunteer on Crete. It appeared that SAM was somewhat nervous as she began to pace in anticipation of the first cabs arrived.

At 9:00 AM Harry and I left with Sam to our assignment. We were met at the gates by the warden of Gazi High School. We followed Sam to the teachers lounge and Principal’s office. We met Stella and Kathryn the English Teachers of the High School after a quick hello from the chain smoking Principal. We soon found ourselves in front of a class of 26 16 year olds. Our format of introduction of self, introduction of Global Volunteers, an Geography of the United States solicited questions from the group. The 45 minute class flew by and the students left us with a series of challenging questions to be discussed next time.

We returned to the hotel for lunch and to share experiences with the other volunteers. There seemed to be additional chatter around the lunch table as ½ of the group released their anxiety through the sharing of their success and the other ½ increased their anxiety due to the unknown and high expectations of self.

Our afternoon was spent walking to town and sitting around the pool sharing thoughts and feelings about the day.

Dinner of Fish and Rice gained high praise. Our 8:30 meeting was called by the arrival of our leader – the meeting was a sharing of the days activities by each individual. There was time for laughter, as Kathy & Lois told of the cab confusion where they tried to convince a school working that he must be their cab driver. There was support as Gil & Shirley related their difficulty with relating to 4 year olds, and there was praise as Sam assured us that we are off to a fantastic start and she was proud of us.

Everyone dismissed with a strong feeling of accomplishment and hopes of an even greater tomorrow.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

2009-01-31T19:46:00.001+05:30

Submitted by Harry Schindele

“You have not lived a perfect day, even though you have earned your money, unless you have done something for someone who will never be able to repay you!”

Wow, what a trip! We all made it and now it is Sunday morning and our 1st day of volunteer work.

We began with a continental breakfast and much chatter about our trip and nightly sleep. First order of “Sam I Am” involved our “name-those-to-the-right” game. Once completed each volunteer offered brief summaries of their personal lives --- some interesting stuff.

Next we discussed the “Philosophy of Service” for Global Volunteers – “Wage peace and promote justice,” followed by the 10 guiding principles.

Some housekeeping chores followed:
Social planning – Millie, Susan, and Jackie
Care Taken – Shirley

SAM was so pleased with our language effort she volunteered to buy the 1st round.

We spent some time developing team goals, summaries by:
Culture & Crete
Helping Others
Developing Friendship
Have Fun

After lunch we discussed the following desirable characteristics of our team – Goodwill, learn & serve friendship, enjoyment, and flexibility.

Team assignments were next on Sam’s agenda. Interestingly, volunteers were a big part of that decision. That was rather nice.

Finally, we reviewed school policy and personal safety. Fire, earthquakes, parachuting, and water boarding were to be avoided.

School policies included: No gifts, no one on one with students, follow teacher’s lead, no early photos.

submitted by Samantha

2008-04-25T09:57:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT OF THE DAY: Every moment of every day, life’s energy is coming your way. Take it all in and make it into something magnificent!

Well you could sure tell that the last day of the program had arrived. Morning meeting at 7am?!? I award a gold medal to Barbara, Elizabeth and Patricia for showing up! The reality that the adventure has come to an end, the last minute late night shopping, and the night cap may be to blame!

Some volunteers went in early today to witness the Easter church service which is attended by the school kids, then back to work teaching at the various schools.

After lunch most did their own things – packing, reading, kicking back. Evening coffee and biscuits together, waiting for the teachers to arrive. But unfortunately only one showed up – at least the others did make the effort to call the hotel and say thank-you and goodbye to the volunteers. The mayor had an emergency meeting, but sent via courier a gracious and flowery speech about the value and inspiration of volunteerism.

Greek music was played loud as Mille and Lia (Sam’s kids) led the volunters out by back door, and around through the front door dancing a greek dance in a line!! Great exercise.

After a dinner (B-B-Q), the volunteers were presented with a certificate and dvd of Gazi. A bracelet was give to Sam in appreciation of her efforts. She, of course, cried!!!!

After a last goodbye drink, it was off for some last-minute packing and little sleep as some had to be up at the crack of dawn for early flights!!

Thanks, guys, you were a great team!!

submitted by Tony

2008-04-18T09:53:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT OF THE DAY: Per arova ad astra

Things motored along pretty much as usual Thursday.

We played musical classrooms again with no clear winner. A couple of periods went well until Val and I were asked to “say a few words” to a 6th-grade class. With no preparation, we were shown in a room of about 24 “exuberant” children, some of whom were actually in their seats. We prevailed, taking no casualities.

In the PM, some of us went shopping, others went “ruining”

submitted by Val

2008-04-17T08:00:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT OF THE DAY: Carpe diem

The day dawned, as usual, with the hopeful sounds of our neighbor to the east – a hyperactive rooster cockadoodling from 4am through the evening, every ten minutes. We are tempted to purchase one of the many Easter hens in storefronts to keep him quiet.

Some of use went to work today, while others had the day off. Barbara and Elizabeth soldiered off to work; Tony went scuba-diving (ama – against medical advice since he tore a ligament in his shoulder with his fall last week. Like all men, he’s created a myth to cover up the truth of his stumbling fall and has told the boys at school he got it playing football. Playground news travels fast and gets twisted. (By next week Tony will probably be playing in the World Cup!)

Val, Eileen and Julie drove off in a zippy, red car rental – a Toyota Aygo – which cost 80 euros for 3 days. Destiny Ayios Nicholaos and Spinalonga—definitely worth seeing. A lovely city and Spinalonga has a fascinating history as it was last lived in by a leper colony disbanded in the mid-1950’s. Driving on the highways is easy, and the views are spectacular as you wind through the mountains. Don’t be afraid to rent and drive – there is really only one main highway that runs end to end. Adventuring off the main roads can be confusing, but always fun.

Patricia ventured off with her family to Reminthon where they were happy to witness a baker making filo dough The city is very busy and not a great destination for the very young, 3-year-old Julian. The organic farm was closed. Posted hours are irrelevant here. Museums and doctors close before hours, seemingly on a whim.

Tony returned from the watery depths, having had the pleasure of going down 30 meters to see a cave. Cool. Elizabeth braved it out alone at school, and conducted so many rounds of bingo that she’s taking Thursday off to recuperate!

Tonight we a have a night out on the town up at Arolithos for a Greek dinner and traditional dances.

submitted by Julie

2008-04-15T10:45:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT OF THE DAY: In learning to know other things and other minds we become more intimately acquainted with ourselves and to ourselves better worth knowing. Phillip G. Hamilton

Today started the last week here in Greece. Breakfast was at eight, and at 9:30 we all ventured off to school. Now that Margo and Nicole are no longer here, Val has switched schools and is teaching with Tony, Patricia and Eileen. She has now not only squeezed herself a spot in the fabulous four, but gets to ride on the fancy bus as well.

After yet another long day of teaching, Barbara, Elizabeth and I took a taxi into Gazi which ended up being very unsuccessful—I wasn’t able to exchange money at the bank and Elizabeth had no luck finding Eileen’s lost belongings. We all met back at the hotel where we enjoyed our sandwiches that Sam had made us. Thank god for peanut butter!

Most of us left after lunch to catch and bus and go to the aquarium, which ended up being amazing and well worth the long bus rides. Elizabeth stayed behind and had another lesson with Ersi. Patricia spent the day with her family in a village called Bali. When we returned to Iraklion, we all went our own ways. Val shopped around, Tony and Barbara went straight to the bus, and Eileen and I went on our own on a little adventure – an unintentional one.

After buying our bus tickets, we turned around to realize we were on our own. It took a couple of questions and wrong turns, but we finally found our way. We all made it back to the hotel in one piece and relaxed until dinner and our meeting at 8 PM.

For dinner we had pastisio, a team favorite, and of course salad and fruit. After dinner, ideas were thrown out for the remainder of the week, which by now we all know will end up being changed a few times before we set an actual plan. It’s 10pm and everyone has gone off to their rooms to get a good night’s sleep, other than myself who is getting the amount of humor out of watching Val trying to make origami, an unsuccessful octopus at that.

submitted by Barbara

2008-04-14T09:04:00.000+05:30

The troop to Chania dwindled to a brave three: Barbara, Elizabeth and Eileen. A long bus ride but the scenery was spectacular with views of the sea, rugged mountains and groves of olive trees marshaled the landscape. I wondered at the great engineering feat that built the winding highway and connected each town with electricity and means of communication. I wonder if when archaeologists unearth this after many years, will we be praised for our creativity or will they laugh their heads off.

Patricia and her family visited two beaches and returned with a happy but sandy little boy. Val was still in lotus position when we returned by after a while we felt it did her some good. Tony, on the other hand, went into town and tried to emulate the male clans at the coffee shops, but was disappointed that they did not seem to accept him without dark glasses.

Oh, yes, there were many opportunities in Chania to guy gifts that might not be given to others. Museums and churches were also visited.

submitted by Eileen

2008-04-13T07:21:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You can’t control the wind, but you can adjust your sails.”

Now there are seven. Margo and Nicole left at 5 AM. A going away party was planned. Unfortunately, no one showed up. Television but no cartoons. Tony, Eileen, Barbara, Val and Julie went to Talos to see the town’s pride and joy – a two-story mall. Later, a conference was held to plan the proposed trips to Chania. Many alternatives were suggested but in the end we had done a one-eighty. Aside from the learned discussions of geography, Tony – on a more homey topic—announced that his laundry had dried. A round of applause for Tony.

submitted by Margo

2008-04-12T09:18:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Have fun, wage peace!

Well, the week has flown by quickly – too quickly. Tomorrow Nicole and I depart, leaving the others to rest up for another full week with the students of Crete’s primary schools.

Most of us are back to full health, except Tony, who is on the way to the local doctor for an x-ray of his shoulder. Wishing for good results.

Today, our fabulous four who teach at Ayia Marina had an excellent day. Many photos of students who have become familiar faces to us, fun conversations, some hokey pokey time, and lots of good English pronunciation.

Best story of the day was Tony and three boys who got so immersed in the photos on Tony’s computer they did not hear the bell ring or the other students run to the next class. They stayed glued to the screen, the desk and each other until the teacher came down and pryed them loose. Tony politely asked if they HAD to leave!

Back at the hotel for lunch of fried eggs, bread and soup, and fresh pears.

Plans for the afternoon changed several times, but finally a group of 5 decided on a trip to the nearby traditional Cretan Village called AROLITHOS. Beautiful and restful. Gorgeous stone buildings, lush gardens, decorative pottery, many cats, and a rooftop restaurant that offered stunning views of the mountains, valleys and sea. We left plenty of euros in the shops (linens and spices mostly). We re-grouped at the hotel for naps, email. Evaluations (Margo and Nicole only) and some relaxation.

Anticipating dinner at 7:30pm followed by Greek dancing taught by Sam’s kids. Some are planning to go out afterward with our stellar teacher, Ersi, from Ayia Pelagia.

submitted by Nicole

2008-04-11T08:15:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Do the day, and let the day do you.

Things are finally sorted out so that wake-up and breakfast actually correspond with the school schedules. Most people get to sleep in, but the Agia Pelagio school still starts early!

School went well, and we ate Demitrius’ fine cooking at 1:30 greek time. Several people took the bus down to Heraklion to see the port (they ended up going to Starbucks …. IN GREECE!) and do some shopping. The rest stayed behind and lounged at the pool. For dinner we walkted to a Gyro placw with Sam and her kids and ate french-fry filled gyros.

Julia and Nicle left early so as to get a reasonable amount of sleep, and everyone else stayed for an unknown amount of time. Barbara has been throwing up, but by the end of the night she was feeling better.

Tomorrow, the group is going to the pottery and weaving place, and after dinner Sam’s daughters are going to teach us Greek dancing. Tomorrow is also the Herman’s last day! They are sad : - (

submitted by Valerie

2008-04-10T09:53:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Even if you’re not a seeker, still, follow us, keep searching with us. Even if you don’t know how to play and sing, you’ll become like us; with us you’ll start singing and dancing.” Rumi

Sam had to wake up Dmitris when she arrived, so a very sleepy, sheepish Dmitris rushed to lay out our traditional breakfast of coffee, tea, nutella spread, biscuits, packaged croissant, boiled eggs, and unbelievably delicious and thick yoghurt.

At 7:30 Papa Antonios picks Nicole and I up at the corner. He is the headmaster of Agia Pelagia, the school where we teach. He is also the teacher of the 5/6 grades, and a priest as well with 3 children. While we wait to be picked up, we enjoy the fresh, clear air and quiet of the morning. If the red sands aren’t blowing in from Africa, we can see several low mountains surrounding the area. Driving up one mountain to reach the school, we follow the coast and weave in and out of towns along the way. The view to the sea is a spectacular blue, and sometimes a crop of white houses in the distance punches a hole of pleasure through the eyes. Here I find the cartoon thought bubbles that so often accompany touring, like “how beautiful” and “how picturesque” have burst from overload. Instead, there is a quiet, serene receiving of the beauty of life all around.

Papa Antonios waves to many as we roll along, most his former students since he’s been teaching for 20 years. This morning he stops and pops the trunk. Someone has flagged him down and is offering him a gorgeous cabbage.

After teaching from 8:30 t0 12:30, our day is done and Ersi, a part-time teacher of greek to immigrant children (Albanian, Frence, German), takes us home. Ersi is nervous and excited to be invited to speak to our group tonight about Greek myths, something she is passionate about.

At lunch we learn that everyone’s tired and not interested in traveling. A few of us walk into the neighboring town of Gazi with pastry and books on our minds. At the bookstore, we find Ersi whose friend works there. I begin to think of “Where’s Waldo?” as Ersi seems to pop up everywhere.

By dinnertime we can count many physical casualties: While Nicole is feeling better, she still has a fever; Tony has fallen painfully on his shoulder; Margo is getting a cold, maybe Julie’s cold.

Ersi joins us for dinner at 7:30, and over our meal we learn at least 6 different meanings of the simple word “ella.” Such a modest word meaning “hello;” but with varying intonations, facial and shoulder and hand motions can take on tender and threatening meanings like: “what?” and “what?” (like you can’t believe what you’re hearing); “are you kidding me?;” and when out with a sweetheart and used in a question form, “ella?” means “will you buy this for me?”

As for myths of Crete, we learned that the Island of Dia in clear view just north of Iraklion was created by a crust of bread, paximade. A giant was going around gobbling up islands when God decided this has got to stop. So God enticed the giant with this bread (apparently it’s gigantically good), saying if you catch this crust of bread you can stay a giant. If you miss, you become an island. Poor giant didn’t keep his eye (one?) on the crust.

Since we had seen Knossos on Tuesday, we asked about myths with bulls. Apparently the philandering Zeus came in many forms to seduce women, and came as a white bull to woo Europa. Poseidon was angry at King Minos at Knossos, and sent a bull as a gift while simultaneously casting a spell on his wife, Pacify, to fall in love with said bull. Their joyful relations produced the minotaur. After hearing all of this, soft-spoken Eileen observed “that’s a lot of bull” – the cleverest remark of the evening to which we all joyfully laughed.

Submitted by Elizabeth

2008-04-09T09:42:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Enjoy each day as a new beginning.

Several members had a morning holiday because of a prior scheduled school activity at one school, but the rest of us went out on assignment to the village and local schools.

Children in two classes at school were well behaved and enthusiastic. The more advanced students can handle simple conversation vs. the limited vocabulary of earlier grades.

Upon return to the hotel, we found that poor Nicole was not feeling well. A local prescription of Raki was rubbed on the soles of her feet, prescribed by Sam and Dimitris. We all hope she will soon feel better.

The rest of us got on the bus for a trip to Knossos, the site of several Minoan palaces south of Heraklion. A local guide accompanied us and gave an interesting tour of the palace remains from around 1450 BC. We appreciated the fact that we had visited the archaeological museum in Heraklion on Monday, as we could place a number of items in sites where they had been discovered. Wonderful reproduction of frescos decorated the palace walls. I especially liked the frescoes of the Bull at the end of the tour.

Following our return to town, we spent leisure time but then gathered in the hotel for a walk to the Windmill restaurant for a delicious evening dinner made up of various Greek appetizers which kept coming from the kitchen. Samantha included her children at the meal, who proved good conversationalists and the little one, Alice Jane, enjoyed the children’s area. There was no evening meeting and the after dinner libation of raki soothed the way to dreamless sleep.

Submitted by Barbara

2008-04-08T08:36:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
One Day at a Time and Easy Does It – 12 Steps Motto

Everyone set out for 3 various schools after breakfast and pep talk from Sam. My school is a private kindergarten between Ammoudara and Gazi, where I helped school staff with a class of 4 or 5 year olds. A few knew some English but no conversational language and teachers that day didn’t speak English. I circulated among 5 tables and interacted with children, playing simple games or introducing myself with photos of my life. Children were active and delightful, and warmed quickly to conversing with picture aids. Class was from 9 to 1:15. They had tasks such as assembling a butterfly, coloring a spring picture, creating a collage of a sea scene.

Returned to hotel via bus, lunch, then the group took a bus trip to Heraklion with the entire team of 9. Problem solved around locating archaeological museum and finding chocolate specialty shop (an adventure).

Returned to hotel for late dinner at 8:30, meeting, summing up the day’s impressions (good, but some stress as it was the “1st day”). Planning for next day involved collaborating around the use of educational resources. Also, setting schedule for trip to Knossos in afternoon.

Submitted by Margo

2008-04-07T09:39:00.000+05:30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
“Silence is golden, but duct tape is silver.”

Sunday morning at 10am we met for our official GV orientation with Samantha. Some jet lag still prevailed with those who had traveled far on Saturday. The traditional Global Volunteers orientation includes introductions, schedules, rules and policies, group goals and characteristics of an effective team. We also learned some really useful Greek greetings and phrases for the classroom.

The Group’s Goals were derived from a merging of individual goals – this very compatible group arrived at the following 4 goals to guide our time together:

1. mutual learning
2. explore new places
3. have fun
4. make new friendships

A healthy list of characteristics for an effective team included the following:
RESPECT, EMPATHY, PATIENCE, SENSE OF HUMOR, LISTENING, CONTRIBUTION, TOLERANCE SPONTANEITY, KINDNESS, OBSERVATION, INCLUSIVE, SUPPORTIVE, SHARING, HONESTY, and FLEXIBILITY.

Samantha promised to teach us some Greek songs and Greek dance and we took a break for lunch!

The President from the Department of Education arrived to provide an official welcome and best wishes for our time in Crete. He also brought the list of schools we would be working at.

Upon his departure, Sam described the school settings and number of volunteers for each site. With some mixing and matching, we all received our assignments and instructions. Crates and boxes and bags full of teaching materials were unveiled and everyone fished through to select those items they thought would be fun and useful in teaching at each site.

The rest of the day was free for naps and showers and exploring the area. Some went into Ammoudara, a few ventured to Gazi and some stayed close to Hotel Handakas for the afternoon.

Dinner of lentil soup and cucumber/tomato/feta salad was served at 8pm. The social chairman, Tony, gathered everyone to discuss and map out some excursions for the week.

Alarms were set and anticipation of meeting the kids of Crete was foremost on our minds as lights went out for the night.

First Day

2008-04-06T10:05:00.000+05:30

Team April, 2008
Leader: Samantha, remote and wonderful Isle of Crete
Julie, Watertown, MA
Margo, Rochester, MN
Nicole, Rochester, MN
Valerie, Elkins Park, PA
Tony, Buffalo, NY
Barbara, Bethlehem, PA
Patricia, FL
Eileen, Toledo, OH
Elizabeth, Salem, OR

All nine volunteers gathered in Saturday, April 5th, at our Hotel for an official welcome and dinner.