From South Africa...

Hello all.

Well this will be quick because internet is scarce and expensive.

I just wanted to let you all know that I'm doing well. I wish I could write on this more and tell you all my stories, but that will have to wait.

I'm living in Durban with Ruth and the kids and Anne who is also from Waterloo. Anne has been here for six weeks and she leaves on Sunday. :(

The kids are great...I'm definitly taking them home with me when I go...I don't really see any other way. The work Ruth is doing here is truly exciting. Yesterday we were driving through the city and some street kids came up to the car. They wait at the stoplights and then beg the drivers. One boy held a baby that was so young. You can't give them any money though, because they are ussually just working for someone else, and the money is used to buy glue. I was sitting in the back of the car with Mary and Jake on my lap, and it was just so clear how priceless what Ruth is doing is. These children could have easily traded places with the kids I saw on the side of the road, but instead they have love and a home, and are happy enough to be spoiled brats sometimes. :)

I've never worked with this young of children before but I really love it. Its so busy and I'm so tired by supper time, its been a bit of an adjustment going from an independent student to a mother of four, but I'm really enjoying all my experiences.

I went driving in the ocean. I'm so flipping brave. I did not get eaten by a shark, but I did see an octopus, dolphins and eel. :)

I wish I could write more. Hopefully I'll have internet again soon. Until then, as they say, "Cheers"

Maria (Mother of Four!)