Asante Itrene (Nov. 30th)

Where we picked up Sister Enna

Traveling up into the mountains in the good company of the TFFT crew Josh and Emily. Don't worry, they drive on the right side here.

We arrive at Irente. It was a rocky ride but the weather couldn't be better.

Going in for some tea with the sisters

Sister Enna who is obviously well loved by the children. we need more Sister Enna's in the world.

I loved this little girl with those pouty lips...she didn't want anything to do with me or my cameras.

mostly, though my camera gear was a big hit

freshly bathed

Dr. Dre should adopt this little guy, he looks just like him

feeding time, you got a little something right there.

After a really depressing day yesterday touring two orphanages that can be classified as bad and shame on you respectively, we braced ourselves for Irente Orphanage in the Lashoto Mountains. This meant a five hour car journey into the bush and up into the mountains marked by great views and quicken heartrates everytime the crazy packed buses came barreling by. Josh and Emily from TFFT were our guides and I got to learn a lot more about their Foundation which, I might add, is doing incredible things.

About a hour away, we picked up the Director of Irente, Sister Enna from the hair salon (hilarious I know) and she immediately reminded me of my grandmother in some ways. Straight foward, practical, speaks her mind, is often funny without knowing and likes to laugh but don't mess with her.

We got to Irente and all we had to say after looking around was "there is hope!". Seriously, from yesterday to today, like night and day. The children are happy, there is way more staff here that want to be here (it's also a 2 year training course for child care that the girls have to apply for and test into, and if they get in they have to pay for). It's clean and organized and I have to say it again, the children are happy! So the lesson gratefully learned today: a good and proper orphanage in Tanzania is possible.

Spent the night up in the mountains at a Montessori school/convent(?) where a vegetarian main entree means no main entree, and we'll head back to the orphanage again tomorrow.