As you can likely tell by the fact that I am rushing to finish my blog at the end of the term, blogging is totally not my forte. I was talking with Joanne a few weeks ago, and she made me wonder why that is. I came up with two reasons, and here they are:
#1. Some weeks, I just don't have anything to say about Beyond Borders.
While I'm sure if I racked my brain I could come up with something about BB to blog about each week, it isn't every week that something jumps out at me. Though I mean this in a positive way, the BB experience is a long one. There are 8 months between starting out and actually flying to your host country. Some weeks, nothing happens on the BB front. Some weeks I am up until ungodly hours of the night writing papers three nights in a row, and I don't even think about my blog. Some weeks, quite frankly, I'd rather watch Friends, Gilmore Girls, and Veronica Mars on DVD and forget school exists. Blogging rarely takes priority in my life, and I don't know if that is something I need to apologize for or just accept.
#2. Often, life is a struggle, and I don't want you people to see me fall.
I have had an exceptionally difficult term this winter (more on that later). From day one in January, things just didn't come together for me at all . . . in fact, they fell apart. Numerous times. Whether it was academic administrivia, problems at work, OSAP issues, fundraising struggles, or something else entirely, things just never seemed to go my way. I have come to love and respect each and every one of my fellow Beyond Bordians, and I didn't feel particularily inclined to share these details with them. It isn't that I worry they'd think less of me (at least not typically), in fact I did tell a few of them about what was going on in conversations. I guess I just want to seem like I have it all together. Most people don't like to show their weaknesses, and I am no exception.
Though those are paltry excuses at best, they are honest. I am now coming to realize that I was wrong about blogging in many ways. It isn't that I really have a problem with blogging. I think it is a worthwhile assignment even though my actions don't reflect that. If I had kept up with everyone else's blog, I would have seen that others were struggling as well, and we could have done a better job of helping each other through that. It is important that I make clear that it was never an issue as to whether or not I wanted to read what all of you had to say, or that I didn't care. It was more a matter of finding time, strength and energy to do so. I can't really make up for lost time, but I am reading your blogs now and I really appreciate what all of you have to say. Thanks for updating even those of us who don't keep up.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Support of the Church?
First, let me say that I love my church family and cannot thank them enough for all the help, support and love they have given me throughout my life. I have learned so much and made many good friends through church and its connections, for which I am eternally grateful. Many of my beliefs and values are a direct result of my associations with the church. I would not be who I am today without it, and probably would not be headed to Ecuador to volunteer for the summer.
When I was accepted into Beyond Borders and learned I would need to fundraise as a part of the program, I was not concerned in the least. I have gone on 3 mission trips, two of which were in the Dominican Republic, and had no difficulty coming up with the money. I held spaghetti dinners, breakfasts, baked for a jazz night, sent support letters, and helped with a bizarre. There was never any worry or panic; the money just came in without any trouble.
I assumed the same would be true this time around. I spoke with my pastor to ask him if I could make an announcement to the congregation and hold some fundraising event, and although he agreed, he was vague and would not give me definite dates. I continued to ask him for a month or two without success. Eventually I learned that I had to speak to a different pastor about the matter, and the other pastor told me I needed to go before the church board in order to have fundraising approved. I made a request to a certain committee to be given funds from a specific missions fund, and I was informed that, since Beyond Borders is not officially connected to a church organization, they were not able to give me anything.
I do understand that there are many organizations that request for funds from the church and missions committee, and that it isn't realistic to give money to all of them. But I was upset by this response because I have been attending my church since I was born. I have taught Sunday school, helped with the youth group, been on worship teams and committees, and volunteered at organizations connected to the church, such as leading for week-long sessions at my summer camp. But yet, after all this, they can't support me in something like this. Though it is not officially a 'mission trip', its purpose does line up with God's mandate to love your neighbour, and to care for the widows and orphans. It is almost hurtful that they would not wish to stand behind me and support me in a program like this.
I went before the board a few nights ago, and my request to fundraise was granted. However, it was a bit late in coming as I already completed my fundraising. I do plan to hold an event when I get back to share my experience for whoever wants to listen, during which I will take up a freewill offering that I will donate to next year's program.
When I was accepted into Beyond Borders and learned I would need to fundraise as a part of the program, I was not concerned in the least. I have gone on 3 mission trips, two of which were in the Dominican Republic, and had no difficulty coming up with the money. I held spaghetti dinners, breakfasts, baked for a jazz night, sent support letters, and helped with a bizarre. There was never any worry or panic; the money just came in without any trouble.
I assumed the same would be true this time around. I spoke with my pastor to ask him if I could make an announcement to the congregation and hold some fundraising event, and although he agreed, he was vague and would not give me definite dates. I continued to ask him for a month or two without success. Eventually I learned that I had to speak to a different pastor about the matter, and the other pastor told me I needed to go before the church board in order to have fundraising approved. I made a request to a certain committee to be given funds from a specific missions fund, and I was informed that, since Beyond Borders is not officially connected to a church organization, they were not able to give me anything.
I do understand that there are many organizations that request for funds from the church and missions committee, and that it isn't realistic to give money to all of them. But I was upset by this response because I have been attending my church since I was born. I have taught Sunday school, helped with the youth group, been on worship teams and committees, and volunteered at organizations connected to the church, such as leading for week-long sessions at my summer camp. But yet, after all this, they can't support me in something like this. Though it is not officially a 'mission trip', its purpose does line up with God's mandate to love your neighbour, and to care for the widows and orphans. It is almost hurtful that they would not wish to stand behind me and support me in a program like this.
I went before the board a few nights ago, and my request to fundraise was granted. However, it was a bit late in coming as I already completed my fundraising. I do plan to hold an event when I get back to share my experience for whoever wants to listen, during which I will take up a freewill offering that I will donate to next year's program.
Fundraising Goal Complete!!
Thanks to the help of family, friends, my fellow Beyond Bordians, and good old fashioned blood, sweat, and tears, I have managed to raise my portion of funds to support the program. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I truly appreciate your love and support for this once in a lifetime experience. I could not have done it without your help.
Fundraising was possibly the part of the program I was most worried about. I have had to raise money for at least 3 other trips, and I never had much trouble in the past. However, with the economy the way it is, I had a lot of difficulty. In fact, when the first deadline for half of the money came around, I did not have a single dollar to hand over. I was starting to freak out (just ask Kate!). Another hindrance to raising money was some difficulties I had fundraising in my church (which I will go into detail about in another entry). In any case, I did not know what I was going to do. It seemed as though my only option was to put in the money myself. Realistically, there was no way I could have afforded it. Working as a waitress for the past two semesters, I only managed to save $1000, which isn't even enough to cover my expenses when I'm gone, much less my time in Ecuador. It was going to be rough.
Luckily, that isn't going to be necessary. I can't thank all of you enough!
Fundraising was possibly the part of the program I was most worried about. I have had to raise money for at least 3 other trips, and I never had much trouble in the past. However, with the economy the way it is, I had a lot of difficulty. In fact, when the first deadline for half of the money came around, I did not have a single dollar to hand over. I was starting to freak out (just ask Kate!). Another hindrance to raising money was some difficulties I had fundraising in my church (which I will go into detail about in another entry). In any case, I did not know what I was going to do. It seemed as though my only option was to put in the money myself. Realistically, there was no way I could have afforded it. Working as a waitress for the past two semesters, I only managed to save $1000, which isn't even enough to cover my expenses when I'm gone, much less my time in Ecuador. It was going to be rough.
Luckily, that isn't going to be necessary. I can't thank all of you enough!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Anotated Bibliography
Ades, Harry and Melissa Graham. The Rough Guide to Ecuador Including the Galapagos
Islands. Rough Guides, New York: 2007.
This guide has many interesting features including a 20 Things Not To Miss, complete with short descriptions and a colour photograph of each attraction. It has a chart outlining the months of the year and areas of Ecuador with minimum and maximum temperatures and rainfall for each region. The majority of the book is divided into 8 different regions, and covers accomodations, transportation, attractions, and tours in each region. The back section covers Galapagos and mainlandwildlife, history, geography, Spanish words and phrases, art, literature, music and film, and suggestions for other books to read.
Insight Guides: Ecuador and Galapagos Islands. APA Publications, London: 2007.
A travel guide that is divided into sections such as History, The Ecuadorians, Life and Lore in the Sierra, Food, and Features. It also gives information about the various areas to visit, such as Quito, the Pacific coast, the western lowlands, the Oriente, and the islands. It also has a section of travel tips, including a section that lists accommodations, their features, and approximate cost, as well as a a list of recommended restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are many illustrations, and it speaks of the local culture as well as tourist attractions.
Smith, Julian. Moon Handbooks Ecuador Including the Galapagos Islands. Avalon Publishing
Group, Inc., Emeryville: 2005.
This guide gives some information on the various regions and major cities of Ecuador, and gives suggestions for a 30-day and 2 week best of Ecuador tour, as well as culture and history, nature and wildlife, and outdoor adventure tours. The middle section of the book is divided into regional sections and gives travel information about each. The end of the book is a section called Know Ecuador, and it covers the land, the natural world, environmental issues, history, government and economy, the people, culture, sports and recreation, tips for travelers, health and safety, and getting around.
Islands. Rough Guides, New York: 2007.
This guide has many interesting features including a 20 Things Not To Miss, complete with short descriptions and a colour photograph of each attraction. It has a chart outlining the months of the year and areas of Ecuador with minimum and maximum temperatures and rainfall for each region. The majority of the book is divided into 8 different regions, and covers accomodations, transportation, attractions, and tours in each region. The back section covers Galapagos and mainlandwildlife, history, geography, Spanish words and phrases, art, literature, music and film, and suggestions for other books to read.
Insight Guides: Ecuador and Galapagos Islands. APA Publications, London: 2007.
A travel guide that is divided into sections such as History, The Ecuadorians, Life and Lore in the Sierra, Food, and Features. It also gives information about the various areas to visit, such as Quito, the Pacific coast, the western lowlands, the Oriente, and the islands. It also has a section of travel tips, including a section that lists accommodations, their features, and approximate cost, as well as a a list of recommended restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are many illustrations, and it speaks of the local culture as well as tourist attractions.
Smith, Julian. Moon Handbooks Ecuador Including the Galapagos Islands. Avalon Publishing
Group, Inc., Emeryville: 2005.
This guide gives some information on the various regions and major cities of Ecuador, and gives suggestions for a 30-day and 2 week best of Ecuador tour, as well as culture and history, nature and wildlife, and outdoor adventure tours. The middle section of the book is divided into regional sections and gives travel information about each. The end of the book is a section called Know Ecuador, and it covers the land, the natural world, environmental issues, history, government and economy, the people, culture, sports and recreation, tips for travelers, health and safety, and getting around.
Monday, March 16, 2009
In The Kitchen at TWC
Before this semester, I didn't have a huge amount of cooking experience. Don't get me wrong, I could find my way around a kitchen and follow a recipe - the basics. In fact, one summer I worked as a nanny and managed to cook for a family of four plus myself, and I managed to make it through a whole three-month summer without any of the kids suffering from malnourishment or getting food poisoned (even though I lived in a constant and irrational fear that that would happen). But this term, as I have been helping out in The Working Centre's kitchen, I am learning quite a lot. The cafe we cook for is vegetarian and sometimes vegan, which right away changes things up a bit. If I was to plan and cook a meal of my own devising, the main dish would most likely involve some sort of meat or meat product. So, instead, I have been learning how to make many dishes that centre around vegetables and meat alternatives. I usually make some sort of salad, though occasionally I've made soup, hummus, or wraps. The recipes usually involve two or more steps, which is quite different than what I am used to. Most often I bake, and at most that requires two separate bowls. Often, these recipies involve frying tofu, sauces and spices in a frying pan, roasting vegetables in the oven, and boiling pasta on the stove, mixing a sauce in a bowl, and then tossing it all together. The other difference is the sheer volume/quantity of food being made. Coming from a family of three, it seems crazy to me to make a soup using 1 kg of green beans, 8 potatoes, 4 giant carrotts, and three cans of tomato juice for one pot of soup. I have learned a lot about the vegetarian/vegan diet in this way.
However, my favourite part about working in the kitchen is the atmosphere. Although Tracie has only been working there a few months, she has really managed to find her rhythm and is doing a fantastic job. On my first day, I missed my bus and had to take a later one. When I called to let her know I'd be late, she told me not to worry about it. When I showed up for work, she gave me a recipe to follow. But the following weeks she let me choose between a few different recipes, and sometimes she first asks me "What do you feel like making?". She is always very friendly and helpful, no matter how many questions I ask her. She is always happy and smiling, asking me about school and my Ecuador trip. I feel blessed to have had the chance to work with her for such a worthy organization.
However, my favourite part about working in the kitchen is the atmosphere. Although Tracie has only been working there a few months, she has really managed to find her rhythm and is doing a fantastic job. On my first day, I missed my bus and had to take a later one. When I called to let her know I'd be late, she told me not to worry about it. When I showed up for work, she gave me a recipe to follow. But the following weeks she let me choose between a few different recipes, and sometimes she first asks me "What do you feel like making?". She is always very friendly and helpful, no matter how many questions I ask her. She is always happy and smiling, asking me about school and my Ecuador trip. I feel blessed to have had the chance to work with her for such a worthy organization.
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
I wanted to take an opportunity to blog about the fundraising breakfast we ran as a Beyond Borders team. Since the beginning of this term, or possibly even last term, we had been trying to come up with an event we could host not only to raise some funds for our trip, but also to introduce ourselves to the community and let them know what Beyond Borders experience is all about. We were all really busy, and we weren't really sure if we could commit to yet another activity. At one point, we had all but decided not to have any event at all, when someone came up with the idea of holding a pancake breakfast. We all thought it was a great idea and decided to go ahead with it.
Things came together relatively quickly, though there were a few minor (and some not so minor) setbacks we came across. There were quite a few people to talk to about venues, food, and supplies, so getting all of that together took a fair bit of orchestration. There were a few last minute changes on where we were going to hold the breakfast. First we were in the main SJU cafeteria, then the girl's dorm, then back again, and finally ended up being in the girl's dorm. It ended up being a great location, not too small that we ran out of tables and chairs, but small enough that it felt homey. There were also some difficulties with the pancake batter we wanted to use because it contained raw egg, and none of us were properly trained to cook with it. It turned out that a local grocery store either gave us a great discount or donated pancake mix which only required us to add water. The cafeteria was also very generous in donating disposable dishes and cutlery, juice, coffee, syrup, margarine and sausage to our cause.
When the morning of the event arrived we all (well, all but one . . . ;o)!!!) showed up bright eyed, bushy tailed, and ready to work . . . well, at least reasonably so. Everyone found something to do, or at least something to look like they were doing, and got to work. By the time the first mass let out, we were ready to go. There was a slight delay when the line outnumbered the number of pancakes we could make at once, and we blew a few fuses with the grills, but all of these problems were fixed quickly and effectively. We had a good sized crowd, and I think made over $700! Though that isn't much money when it needs to be split between all of us, the event was quite successful, and I think we did quite well in pulling it off . . . and it was a lot of fun!! Thanks again to my fellow Beyond Bordians. You rock!
Things came together relatively quickly, though there were a few minor (and some not so minor) setbacks we came across. There were quite a few people to talk to about venues, food, and supplies, so getting all of that together took a fair bit of orchestration. There were a few last minute changes on where we were going to hold the breakfast. First we were in the main SJU cafeteria, then the girl's dorm, then back again, and finally ended up being in the girl's dorm. It ended up being a great location, not too small that we ran out of tables and chairs, but small enough that it felt homey. There were also some difficulties with the pancake batter we wanted to use because it contained raw egg, and none of us were properly trained to cook with it. It turned out that a local grocery store either gave us a great discount or donated pancake mix which only required us to add water. The cafeteria was also very generous in donating disposable dishes and cutlery, juice, coffee, syrup, margarine and sausage to our cause.
When the morning of the event arrived we all (well, all but one . . . ;o)!!!) showed up bright eyed, bushy tailed, and ready to work . . . well, at least reasonably so. Everyone found something to do, or at least something to look like they were doing, and got to work. By the time the first mass let out, we were ready to go. There was a slight delay when the line outnumbered the number of pancakes we could make at once, and we blew a few fuses with the grills, but all of these problems were fixed quickly and effectively. We had a good sized crowd, and I think made over $700! Though that isn't much money when it needs to be split between all of us, the event was quite successful, and I think we did quite well in pulling it off . . . and it was a lot of fun!! Thanks again to my fellow Beyond Bordians. You rock!
Monday, March 9, 2009
More on Ecuador
I realized that the information I gave during my last Ecuador presentation never made it to my blog, so I thought I'd remedy that. One thing that is of interest to me is the people of Ecuador. The approximate population is 14 000 000. Though the official language is Spanish, there are approximately 20 other native tongues due to the indigenous population. In fact, the indigenous people make up 1/3 to 1/4 of the population, which is largely mixed, or 'mestizo'. There are many social and economic divisions between people groups, much like many other places in the world. Somewhere between 4o% and 66% of the population live below the poverty line. The country specializes largely in agriculture, and its main exports are petroleum products, coffee, cacao, bananas, cut flowers and shrimp. This means their economy varies depending on the market, and is severely affected by fluctuations in world commodity prices, and can be quite unstable. Voting is compulsory for literate people between the ages of 18 and 65, and Ecuador was the first country in South America to grant women the right to vote. Despite this, the country overall has been slow to accept equality of the sexes, which is illustrated by the fact that only 40% of women are economically active. Though women have entered most fields of work, they still do not work as welders or bus drivers. In 1990, women even made up 10% of the police force. I am very excited about the chance to interact with these people, to see and experience firsthand what their lives are like. It is not every day a chance like this comes along.
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