tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56124109052307288902024-03-13T17:54:34.893+00:00Journey to AfricaA tale about the journey to Africa for a credit union employee volunteering with the Canadian Co-operative Association to help mentor other credit union managers......Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-63677133765177036132014-02-15T23:17:00.004+00:002014-02-15T23:25:17.697+00:00Back to "normal"I returned to work this week and was overwhelmed with everyone stopping by and calling to: say hello, tell me they missed me, and ask how my trip was....a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who has welcomed me home!!<br />
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I've been so fortunate to have travelled to Africa three times with the Canadian Cooperative Association and each trip has been very memorable for me...but there was something about this trip...it really made me sit back and take stock of things....and to realize just how lucky I truly am....and what is REALLY important in life!<br />
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What I have learned is that "stuff" doesn't make you happy....that you need to focus on the good and truly be grateful for all that you have...to take charge of your life and find the things that make you passionate and happy and DO them!!! To tell the people that mean so much to you - you LOVE them - and how thankful you are to have them in your life and foR always Being there for you!!! <3 That life is truly precious and not to take it for granted....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBZEauwIwjTZJPB_yKvkuZ-AS0egi8wDJRJO5lG-wkBrm9EwRWOTrOifoJc7uqfkjUKR4EE3FU2DBrvVe0oDijWzvjSakNVEn6Lw5CWprgjfbfr_s0bgAliM_u7LuJje4nYy3mz0oPf4S/s1600/1011221_10202858466175682_17052926_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBZEauwIwjTZJPB_yKvkuZ-AS0egi8wDJRJO5lG-wkBrm9EwRWOTrOifoJc7uqfkjUKR4EE3FU2DBrvVe0oDijWzvjSakNVEn6Lw5CWprgjfbfr_s0bgAliM_u7LuJje4nYy3mz0oPf4S/s1600/1011221_10202858466175682_17052926_n.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a>I'm honestly having a hard time being back....<br />
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I am still amazed every day when I have hot water, and lots of it, by simply turning a tap.....<br />
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And for a fridge full of food......<br />
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I am trying to remember not to "preach" at others when they are complaining about first world problems.....<br />
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But...I'm thankful... REALLY thankful these trips have changed me...deep inside....and made me realize how truly lucky I really am. <span id="goog_821973836"></span><span id="goog_821973837"></span><br />
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I have to say thank you to:<br />
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<strong>CCA</strong> - for creating such a meaningful program that is truly making a difference in the lives of others<br />
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<strong>Interior Savings Credit Union</strong> - for being such an excellent employer and supporter of programs like this<br />
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<strong>My co-workers</strong> - especially Elenore & Lois who covered for me while I was away<br />
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And last but not least my <strong>friends and family</strong>.....who sent me words of encouragement while I was away.....even at my age (29 LOL!) it stills means something to hear your family tell you they are proud of you :)<br />
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Heidi in Kelowna...feeling so grateful :)<br />
<br />Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-50575263215089712762014-02-03T18:10:00.001+00:002014-09-05T23:28:25.088+00:00"It is what it is"We had our debrief training in London with the other CCA teams that were in Uganda and Malawi. It was great to see everyone again and hear they all faired well and there were no injuries to report.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Ghana 2014</td></tr>
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All of the coaches with CCA are incredible but there was something special about our Team Ghana this year. We really bonded as a team, all of us, and we were really there for each other through thick and thin and it made the experience that much more enjoyable. So much so we have already agreed upon a reunion trip together next year. Our priorities are pretty simple - hot water, flushing toilets and chicken and rice every day! Hahahaha <br />
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We had a mantra this trip, thanks to my wonderful partner Joan who coined, "It is, what it is".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUe18AJwGg3IOJs7_OdtQnXmonjlipvlZYfHvkq33IBpQO5sdML8nPiUA8B9djCwxmCEYGlGkwQbm36n0gpFy71RXMWAXZm9WX1FceEjI-z13zbr6BjuijcdhIpSnQ-BvBfBgce15W0FRL/s1600/1656330_10202800267880761_1086081422_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUe18AJwGg3IOJs7_OdtQnXmonjlipvlZYfHvkq33IBpQO5sdML8nPiUA8B9djCwxmCEYGlGkwQbm36n0gpFy71RXMWAXZm9WX1FceEjI-z13zbr6BjuijcdhIpSnQ-BvBfBgce15W0FRL/s1600/1656330_10202800267880761_1086081422_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>When things weren't as we expected or we struggled with something Joan would say "It is, what it is" and we would laugh and carry on. I can honestly say I do not recall either Joan or I muttering one single complaint this whole trip....and don't get me wrong there was lots that a person could complain about should they choose to, but I'm so glad we took the high road and just lived in the moment and appreciated every experience that came our way. <br />
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There is a life lesson in there for all of us, to take the unexpected and hardships that come our way and see the positive in it, no matter what it is. I am going to make a real effort to continue on with this philosophy back home. To REALLY appreciate all the little things that people do for me and be grateful for all the experiences that will come into my life. After all isn't it the unexpected events that make the best stories?! And I've been known to tell a good story or two!<br />
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BUT! One of things they taught us in London at our debrief is that NO ONE is as interested in our trip and experiences as we are?!! What??? Really?? Surely this doesn't apply to MOI?! hahaha......note to self.....make sure people ASK first about my trip and don't just start telling a bunch of stories about Ghana without being asked...LOL ;)<br />
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I'll "try" and remember.<br />
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Heidi in London.....feeling a sense of accomplishment :)<br />
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<br />Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-53702265452409168862014-01-31T06:11:00.002+00:002014-03-07T22:52:29.222+00:00One last item on my 'To Do' List....It was our last day in Sunyani and Joan and I had a few things we wanted to do before we left.....okay let's make that I had one BIG thing I wanted to do before we left and my partner was kind enough to indulge me on one last request.<br />
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I decided I wanted to open an account at the Sunyani Municipal Teachers Cooperative Credit Union. Call it research....or giving back to this community....or heck just plain believing in this credit union and all they have done. For my coworkers back home the entire process took approximately 10 minutes and they even take your photo as they have it available online.....but I'm pretty sure they wouldn't confuse me with another member....LOL!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akua with her passbook from Sunyani Municipal Teachers CCU<br />
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While I was there the Chair of the Board just happened to come in to do his banking and he was thrilled when he saw I was opening an account at his credit union. I had met the Chair previously 3 years ago and it was very nice to see him again. I told him how proud I was of all they had accomplished in such a a short period of time, and that I had always promised to come back and see their completed water hole one day and now I had fulfilled my promise. He was very pleased.<br />
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We then travelled to Accra, the capital city in Accra to meet up with all the other teams that have been working in Ghana. It was an awesome reunion seeing everyone again and hearing all their stories from the last week and a half and seeing how the partners have bonded during their time here, this truly is a remarkable program. I've seen first hand some real changes and improvements since I was last here 3 years ago and that my friends is a wonderful feeling. I have no doubt the coaches from 2014 have made a contribution by providing yet another hand up not a hand out. <br />
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Akua Heidi in Ghana.....feeling.....like I could really use a long hot shower!!! Hahahah........</div>
Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-11289245637474522662014-01-29T22:19:00.000+00:002014-02-13T20:33:43.399+00:00Learning and growing.....Today was a very good day......even though I shed a few tears and am again now as I write this....it was a very good day......<br />
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We had a great wrap us visit with our credit union. We offered many suggestions to our new friends at the Berekum Area Teachers' Cooperative Credit Union and even gave them some very forward thinking ideas......I know they will seriously consider them and implement the ones that they can.<br />
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As I was giving the summary to the Board and was thanking them for being so gracious to us.....I teared up....it is just so overwhelming at times how appreciated you feel by these amazing people and how good it feels inside to truly be helping others when you know the ideas will benefit so many. Thankfully my partner Ya Joan jumped in to "save me" when I started to get choked up as it really was an overwhelming moment for me....thanks Joan :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joan & Lynne - Heidi & Jonah</td></tr>
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We also gave back on a personal level today. We asked our driver Moses if we could take his children swimming in our pool at the hotel. They had visited us last week when we stayed here and seemed very curious about the pool as they have never been swimming before. So tonight when we arrived in town we picked them up on the way and took them in the pool with us. WOW what an experience!! They loved it and it was so much fun seeing their reaction to being in that much water and learning how to keep their mouth closed so they didn't swallow the water LOL! We take so much for granted back home....so much....imagine your child never swimming before, not even in a bathtub full of water. I wonder how that must have felt for them today...it was a priceless memory that I'm sure none of us will ever forget. :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heidi, Moses & Joan</td></tr>
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Moses stopped by later to give us his sincere gratitude for giving that moment to his children. Moses....it was truly an honour to do that for you and Jonah and Lynne after you have done so much for us these last 2 weeks. Keeping us safe and listening to all our stories in the car (you poor thing!). I will miss you and all the new friends we have made here.<br />
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Sister Akua Heidi in Sunyani, Ghana.....feeling very fulfilled.....Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-5040358248476621192014-01-28T22:39:00.002+00:002014-02-13T20:32:03.691+00:00Live like you mean it!Today was one of those days.....a hectic one full of all sorts of surprises and hidden gems (lots more stories for when I return). We started out by visiting our last credit union we will be working with here and it hit me.....where on earth has the time gone?! My Dad has this excellent analogy he has shared with me in the past....(feel free to steal this one as he is a VERY smart man....love you Dad!)<br />
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"Life is like a toilet roll (how fitting given our lack of washroom facilities over here...LOL!) when you put on a fresh roll it seems like it is going to last forever, but the closer you get to the end the quicker it goes."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ya Joan & Akua Heidi<br />
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That is exactly how I feel about this trip. When we first arrived it felt like we had so much time ahead of us to take everything in but now that we are wrapping up tomorrow with our last credit union visit I'm really wondering where did the time go?!<br />
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While I know Joan and I have definitely left our mark over here I still can't help but think of how much more we could have done if we just had a bit more time.....<br />
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One thing I do know for sure.....don't wait for tomorrow....do the things that you've always dreamt about......have an adventure and make new friends wherever you go...and LIVE your LIFE like you mean it!!<br />
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I've had a tremendous trip with an excellent partner and I can hardly wait for tomorrow ......BRING IT!!!<br />
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Akua Heidi in Ghana......feeling heartfelt :)<br />
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<br />Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-83432021089517773522014-01-27T22:47:00.000+00:002014-02-13T20:31:18.649+00:00Under the mango tree....<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today we finished up at Mim Ahafo Community Cooperative Credit Union or MACCCU for short. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I just have to describe the scene for you....</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Board Meeting with MACCCU</td></tr>
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</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Close your eyes and picture 15 Board and Committee members, sitting on Rubbermaid chairs under the shade of a huge mango tree.....all waiting for 'Ya Joan' and I to give our final report to them....it was surreal, it really was.....and I have a wicked sunburn to prove it! LOL</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">They have some real issues here, loan delinquency being the biggest one.....how exactly do you say no to someone when they a need a loan to be able to live for the next month....let's just pause and think about that for a minute ...... ........ ........</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Hmmmm....kind of puts things into perspective doesn't it?! DOESN'T IT! And how truly lucky we really are....</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We had some big ideas in our report that we borrowed from home for them to try and combat their issues. Ideas such as:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- A longer term loan so the payments can be smaller and more affordable (all they offer here are 12 month loans)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- Looking at the savings history and basing loan payments on what amount they are able to save each month and taking their income and expenses into account vs. the current method of loaning double what they currently have in their savings account</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- We also suggested they offer members the option of the credit union processing their loan payment for them rather then the member having to come in to make the payment personally to their loan.....a hard feat for many members when most arrive on foot. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We finished off our meeting with some presentations and then opened it up for any questions they may have...and they had plenty. It was a really wonderful day, one that will stick with me probably for the rest of my days...knowing in our small way we are making a difference over here with this incredible program through The Canadian Cooperative Association. Medasi! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Oh and 'Ya Joan' and I received these incredible matching dresses that they had made specially for us. I'm not sure how they managed to have them made so accurately without our measurements....LOL....and the PF side of me really doesn't want to know...but I absolutely love mine and already wore it to dinner and can't wait to wear it on my first day back at work. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Akua Heidi in Ghana.....feeling humbled.....</span>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-61487015113246573742014-01-26T21:45:00.000+00:002014-02-13T20:30:33.376+00:00Elephants!!!Oh wow....WOWEEEE what a day!! We had the weekend off for some leisure time so we made the 9 hour trek up to Mole National Park for a safari. For a SAFARI people!!! In Africa!!! I mean come on....who doesn't want to do that in their lifetime??!! <br />
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I was so was excited at the opportunity to get to go and my partner Ya Joan is always up for anything so we went for it....even though it was a long drive it was so worth it!!<br />
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The moment we pulled up you could see them off in the distance, down at the watering hole...man....not only am I in Africa again but I am actually seeing elephants in the wild...AWESOME!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right across the road from the elephants!<br />
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So after a few hours there Joan and I decided to go get our bathing suits on so we could go for a dip in the pool and low and behold 4 elephants were just down the road from our room!! Wow....and I mean WOW another Bucket List item for me to cross off!!<br />
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First of all they are black not grey and they are very loud as they go stomping through the bush and eating all the leaves and branches. We were also told they have bad eyesight but excellent smell. Apparently if an elephant is ever coming at you, you are to hide behind a tree as they will typically not be able to see you as long as you go directly behind the tree and if there are several of you together then stand single file, one behind each other. Who knew?! Thankfully I didn't have to put this to the test today.<br />
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Having a FABULOUS time over here. Can't believe it is going by so fast (boo, hoo).<br />
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Ya Joan and I are already back at it tonight working on our board report for Mim Community Credit Union tomorrow. I can't wait for that meeting and to present all of our ideas...we have some real gems in there for them...Bring it!! :)<br />
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Akua Heidi in Sunyani, Ghana....feeling so damn lucky!!!! <BIG HUGE SMILE!>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-54852190809319509082014-01-24T22:21:00.003+00:002014-02-13T17:52:41.561+00:00Speaking the same languageThe time is just whizzing by and my partner, "Ya Joan" (LOL YES there is a story there!) and I are having a fabulous time just taking it all in and enjoying every experience that comes our way.<br />
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So far we have:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My future husband?!<br />
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- met the Chief of the town we were in<br />
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- wandered in the community marketplace <br />
- got bombarded by some kids at a road side stand<br />
- was asked for my hand in marriage by a 60 something year old with 4 teeth (that one I had to really think about!)<br />
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- went 4X4'ing on a "shortcut" (only hit my head 10x on the roof of the truck.....okay maybe I'm exaggerating....it was more like 5)<br />
And I've loved EVERY SINGLE SECOND!!<br />
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I had my first shower tonight since I've been here....OMG....that felt soooo good. We take so much for granted back home.....so much!! I even turned off the water while I was shampooing as it felt so precious, amazing how quickly you can adapt and truly be thankful for the little things that really mean so much.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conversing in Twi with the local shop keepers<br />
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I've made it a goal to learn a new Twi (local dialect) word every day....I'm at 12 now LOL!! It's really coming back to me. We were standing in the street outside our credit union this afternoon and an older lady was walking by and smiled at me so I said "maahaaa" (phonetic spelling) which means good afternoon, she stopped dead in her tracks and asked me in twi how are you and I said "mo ho yay" which means I am good! Then I told her "ma deen day" (my name is) Akua Heidi and she laughed and broke into a whole conversation with me in Twi which of course I knew none of those words...LOL...I just laughed and told her that's all I know. It was awesome though....I love it <BIG HUGE SMILE!><br />
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We're in Mim now working with the credit union here. There is a great vibe in this credit union. They are very warm and inviting and we even had dinner with their Founder - wow - they are so generous to us here.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mim Credit Union<br />
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I really hope we can find some real gems, or our one 'ting' (as my former Irish coach and friend Damien would say) to leave behind to help them.....I'm quite certain we will :)<br />
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Akua Heidi in Ghana.....feeling so grateful....Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-59181558749448489542014-01-22T21:10:00.000+00:002014-09-05T23:17:55.497+00:00WOW!!! What a day.....Well....where do I even begin?! Today I got to cross another thing off my Bucket List!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSPhKzdNC2n-_aDVUJl_9Y0EN3b4MkbyoCBh3eaN_Ca-DnHH02__XRYqyYUnv3J2KKew-SnjtllmhuqnJjDnDBEZHCfNhYE2_V4I6tAd1JkQn4Lrpz98X9Hy5odAJ5Xp50rto9rNeJh8g/s1600/IMG_2642-SMILE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSPhKzdNC2n-_aDVUJl_9Y0EN3b4MkbyoCBh3eaN_Ca-DnHH02__XRYqyYUnv3J2KKew-SnjtllmhuqnJjDnDBEZHCfNhYE2_V4I6tAd1JkQn4Lrpz98X9Hy5odAJ5Xp50rto9rNeJh8g/s1600/IMG_2642-SMILE.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a> I was able to visit with the staff of the Sunyani Municipal Teacher's Co-operative Credit Union and see my old friends - James, Sylvia and Samuel. James has just been promoted to Manager and I couldn't be happier. He is such a hard worker and it's great to see him rewarded for that. Even though they weren't expecting me James took time out of his day to show me all their progress since I was last here in 2011.<br />
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Well let's see, they've built a hostel, to house 10 students a year who are going to school in their community AND purchased land and cement blocks for their new branch location AND built a water hole which is now servicing not only their members but also their community at large! </div>
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Wow....WOW, that was an amazing moment for me...seeing the water hole project in person....I was only sorry my previous partner Damien wasn't here to share that moment with me. :(<br />
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And on top of all of that they had a 152.83% increase in general performance over last year. Yup, that's right 152.83%!!! I think it is time I moved to Sunyani and took a job here at this credit union as they have a very bright future ahead of them!<br />
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Honestly, it was a very overwhelming day for me and I shed a few tears of pride today in all that this credit union has accomplished in such a short period of time and how committed they are to their community...well done!!
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Heidi in Ghana....feeling blessed..... :)
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Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-7755543767679678322014-01-20T21:03:00.001+00:002014-02-13T20:27:04.163+00:00Training complete.....off to BA we go!We finished up our training today. It was excellent and a very enjoyable day. It's great to see all the improvements in the program since I was last here. A highlight from today.....an awesome ice breaker that Ernest from CUA led for us! He combined Ghana, Ireland and Canada into a new word = GHANIRECAN<br />
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We all had to get up out of our seats, put our hands on our hips and spell out our new word with our hips.....LOL.....it was so funny!! We all laughed and laughed and it was such a good ice breaker! YES we will be trying this out in 'The Hood' when I get back! Hands down best ice breaker ever, feel free to steal this idea.<br />
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We're off to BA tomorrow, a full day of travel and a first for me as we now fly on a domestic flight thanks to Scott and Brian who set that standard for all of us in 2012.<br />
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I have a new partner, Joan, from Fort St James as we both have a personal connection to the BA Region. Joan has hosted a lady in Canada in the Women's Mentorship Program and I want to return to BA so I can see the completed water hole that Damien and I (my coaching partner from 2011) worked on. We also learned today that we will have the same driver I had in 2011 - Moses - so this trip is really shaping up to be a trip down memory lane for me <BIG HUGE SMILE!><br />
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Yup, another awesome day in Africa :) I can't wait for tomorrow!!<br />
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Heidi in Ghana......<br />
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<br />Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-71518638630922738632014-01-19T08:47:00.003+00:002014-02-13T20:22:36.957+00:00We made it!We all arrived safely with our luggage intact so things are off to a very good start over here. Excited for our first day in Ghana and to see what has changed since I was last here 3 years ago.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Court yard of Paloma Hotel - Accra, Ghana<br />
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It's around 28 degrees already and I'm sitting here in a nice cool breeze in the court yard at the Paloma Hotel listening to some African music in the background...after a great breakfast of eggs, dry toast and watermelon...ahhhhh....does it get any better than this?!<br />
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We're on the move today to the central credit union's training centre where we will be stationed for the next two days while we complete our in country training....bring on the Adventure!! :)<br />
<br />Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-49718932691906559952013-12-19T12:58:00.000+00:002013-12-19T12:58:11.127+00:00Here we go again......<div>
WAHOOOOOEEEEEE!!!!!!!! I was absolutely thrilled to receive word that I am going to Africa again as a last minute fillin coach for CCA. But the moment was bittersweet for me when I realized that I was going in place of a friend who can no longer make it. That was a hard moment for me......</div>
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I have ALWAYS wanted to go back to Africa, but WITH my friend not FOR him....but I know if the shoe were on the other foot I would have done the same for him.....I promise to do my best to make him proud of his replacement.</div>
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So......it is with great excitement that I announce I am indeed going back to Africa, the Eastern Region of Ghana to be exact and I have been partnered with another Irishman!! Heaven help Liam as my last Irish partner is still in therapy from our trip....or so he likes to tell me every time we talk...hahaha!<br />
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So I hope you will follow along as I set out on this new adventure.....Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-74191624692824638322012-02-11T03:08:00.002+00:002012-02-11T03:14:12.240+00:00Thank you.....As I sit here...reflecting back on my time in Africa...I am overcome with emotion......what a journey it truly was!!!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity....that I know others will only ever dream of......</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am so thankful to so many people who have helped me to realize this life long dream....</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygFS0EVJxWYalf7X2G8bDk8MqUbJI_6IRexZVqpaFPJDMqM9tmQG10KlDuT3IVyV7V-2AQ2325rXskyxOr1MJtvhnh0Vfpq4UgEA2Dq62qz6UcDu0ktZQXVnqsDMFNTBJNbfYRIpndeUb/s1600/cca_logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="40" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygFS0EVJxWYalf7X2G8bDk8MqUbJI_6IRexZVqpaFPJDMqM9tmQG10KlDuT3IVyV7V-2AQ2325rXskyxOr1MJtvhnh0Vfpq4UgEA2Dq62qz6UcDu0ktZQXVnqsDMFNTBJNbfYRIpndeUb/s200/cca_logo.gif" width="200" /></a>To CCA and John Julian for developing such an amazing program that I have seen first hand is making a difference in the lives of others in developing countries by providing them with a hand UP and not a hand OUT....and to Laurie and Sarah for picking me out of dozens of applicants...thank you!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">To my employer, Interior Savings Credit Union, thank you for allowing me to participate in this incredible program and being such great supporters of the credit union movement worldwide...and Barry, thank you for your support, it meant everything to me...I am really going to miss you when you retire! :)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjt70R0kQRzPEcHmhB8PAcw4QISh8g_oSEISTWWNtt9kAtS6OaExg9Z0ldZRjfwW3XV76wYgLeX00q-og9xCQzLx-RhExXAdSZbqgpIz_PKQgv_efpw4p7zbldhqngs0XO4BTwRRRBW8aR/s1600/Logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjt70R0kQRzPEcHmhB8PAcw4QISh8g_oSEISTWWNtt9kAtS6OaExg9Z0ldZRjfwW3XV76wYgLeX00q-og9xCQzLx-RhExXAdSZbqgpIz_PKQgv_efpw4p7zbldhqngs0XO4BTwRRRBW8aR/s1600/Logo.gif" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">To my co-workers, who are like my second family, who have picked up the slack for me while I have been gone and who will put up with all my millions of stories I am going to be telling and re-telling over and over again...hahaha.....thank you.....I am so fortunate to work with such talented people who are so dedicated to our credit union and our community! I was so proud to represent all of you!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDvmD4i_GXU00J89Y89RE5yimhW2baegjD5rm_m287qAvh2l7RzUZMzNe59ZgquGg9H_pkHC06i35Qxkk1XqExrnQF0bkByAPDyWJOrv-zhFvMPmdflK1oDaPmrs1284Ym4PTjWz93SxJ/s1600/Muzuzu+24Jan+065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDvmD4i_GXU00J89Y89RE5yimhW2baegjD5rm_m287qAvh2l7RzUZMzNe59ZgquGg9H_pkHC06i35Qxkk1XqExrnQF0bkByAPDyWJOrv-zhFvMPmdflK1oDaPmrs1284Ym4PTjWz93SxJ/s200/Muzuzu+24Jan+065.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMOc5ogWLzX_QwG4B2S4SA8EzrVXA_8qaHTyU3KLXoawt2Yr6sk37A3JUoMsSdogfyP2DgJ0cCzwQjRl2HX14MwMwuChOwb8MTf840Mon7tnHTsFB2D9Ur9R70kEfGItM3B3p7d_fhraS/s1600/Garth's+Photos+074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMOc5ogWLzX_QwG4B2S4SA8EzrVXA_8qaHTyU3KLXoawt2Yr6sk37A3JUoMsSdogfyP2DgJ0cCzwQjRl2HX14MwMwuChOwb8MTf840Mon7tnHTsFB2D9Ur9R70kEfGItM3B3p7d_fhraS/s200/Garth's+Photos+074.jpg" width="200" /></a>To the incredible Malawian people I was so fortunate to meet...thank you for sharing your beautiful country with me and teaching me all about the "Warm Heart of Africa"...it was a gift I will always cherish...deep in my heart!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XBQAtpvLkAyDLH0nmGFYtFHiqV1u08y2FfaSm6_Hrmgg0uaPrHbbcJvu9pxWqpmE0slyMAKCbQlAdM9KiYKqqfjFgTknVrvbvtUHszoXmIKmVxvZ5ghitRAUzTZbe-LZ76rJaUXcEgeF/s1600/London+Get+together+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XBQAtpvLkAyDLH0nmGFYtFHiqV1u08y2FfaSm6_Hrmgg0uaPrHbbcJvu9pxWqpmE0slyMAKCbQlAdM9KiYKqqfjFgTknVrvbvtUHszoXmIKmVxvZ5ghitRAUzTZbe-LZ76rJaUXcEgeF/s200/London+Get+together+011.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">To my fellow coaches, from both last year and this year....oh boy where do I even begin.....oh dear....here come the tears.......you are some of the most passionate and talented people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting...it was truly my honour to be in such good company and I was so touched by your friendship, and promise to keep in touch! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">And last, but certainly not least...to my family......you have been behind me 100% while I went through this journey....it meant so much to hear you were proud of me...thanks for being my cheerleaders, I love you all so much...especially my boys, Luke and Nick...thank you....for inspiring me to want to be the best Mama ever......and for teaching me so many life lessons and what is really important in life!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Zukomo Kwambini (thank you VERY MUCH!)</div><br />
Heidi :)<br />
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Oh Yeah! <br />
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P.S. Cory - I DID end up beating you with more hits on my blog than you! hahahaha.....<br />
and CCA - if you ever need a last minute fillin in the future - I am SO IN!! :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga151WsptCrzwp5WR6I8lWl3_vRfGZaW0CqW-IKP8QarIcLLWDRO9d6iAEsZLFBxuIjyj1kJyvjamDeTEnjcUKISPtFp635iS5YYK5BZ2N9gGa1ocj7L7fOdyD-wYgF_uwdmKb3e26dkos/s1600/Heidi+in+Malawi+SACCO+Dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga151WsptCrzwp5WR6I8lWl3_vRfGZaW0CqW-IKP8QarIcLLWDRO9d6iAEsZLFBxuIjyj1kJyvjamDeTEnjcUKISPtFp635iS5YYK5BZ2N9gGa1ocj7L7fOdyD-wYgF_uwdmKb3e26dkos/s320/Heidi+in+Malawi+SACCO+Dress.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-64046070822530706942012-02-01T21:19:00.000+00:002012-02-01T21:19:10.378+00:00My New Malawian Friend :)<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8l68hyphenhyphenOc4ZElqBt1r8gYQul-jFaaxKUvV6-2CFyojZv7IPXoGnlwU1C0W03HiCfMBzY2leQmhKopn3mdCO6O5rc_cqb8KHPcOZCMntNjmfBfSVN3xau1wKJf7pdH8n4BEhWY7hrg3u405/s1600/Lillongwe+Feb1+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8l68hyphenhyphenOc4ZElqBt1r8gYQul-jFaaxKUvV6-2CFyojZv7IPXoGnlwU1C0W03HiCfMBzY2leQmhKopn3mdCO6O5rc_cqb8KHPcOZCMntNjmfBfSVN3xau1wKJf7pdH8n4BEhWY7hrg3u405/s320/Lillongwe+Feb1+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Receiving my gift...a moment I'll never forget! :)</div><div align="center"></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-90436917601192510092012-02-01T21:08:00.000+00:002012-02-01T21:08:55.613+00:00Lennie and I in our SACCO cloth outfits :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3J4Bb7ouUIh_F05vHspaPcQzxasOKyfX6xjT2XLUuwqFkbJ_cusAsdh9Fxp6ooXoz-MVIZgSWpVN4Y-WqU-a31hBeqDt6IJbSjydCsVzsk0fvyRVD1qjfWsAd-nf1Q_AKL1bPUWN35q6/s1600/IMG_2101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3J4Bb7ouUIh_F05vHspaPcQzxasOKyfX6xjT2XLUuwqFkbJ_cusAsdh9Fxp6ooXoz-MVIZgSWpVN4Y-WqU-a31hBeqDt6IJbSjydCsVzsk0fvyRVD1qjfWsAd-nf1Q_AKL1bPUWN35q6/s320/IMG_2101.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-75722782069022731922012-02-01T21:01:00.001+00:002012-02-01T21:01:44.138+00:00Experiencing the "Warm Heart of Africa" one last time.....We had a great day today, our last full day in Malawi before we leave tomorrow.<br />
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The MUSCCO staff took us to a tailor here in Lillongwe to have our SACCO cloth made into an outfit before we leave for home. I had done that last year in Ghana and really wanted to have an outfit from Malawi.<br />
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We got all measured up and then dropped off our cloth - it was around 10 am and we were told to come back at 2 to pick up our outfits. So while we waited we went back to the hotel and lounged around the pool for a few hours, and oh boy am I burnt! LOL....I can hear the groans now...and the violins playing in the background from my Canadian friends back home as you are in the dead of winter!<br />
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We went back to the tailor in the afternoon but the outfits weren't quite ready as they had run out of buttons in the market. While we were waiting a lady selling cloth and beads offered me a seat, beside her, on her bench while she did her beading. It was fascinating, and she was so friendly.....again.....the "Warm Heart of Africa" surfaced......<br />
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I purchased a couple of sets of beads from her and then she told me to pick one.....she wanted me to have one, a gift from her.......WOW!!! I can't even begin to tell you how touched I was.....they have so little and yet they are the ones always giving......here was this lady, making a living selling material and beads and she was offering me one...for FREE!! This place truly is amazing, <u>please</u> add it to your bucket list as you just have to experience it to believe it!<br />
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When we went to leave I gave her my last Canada pin...she was so thrilled......she said thank you and I love you...hahaha.....I think that just means she was happy to have met me :)<br />
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Another amazing day in Malawi.....I wish I could stay another week........<br />
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Heidi in Lillongwe :)<br />
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P.S. The outfit cost 3500 Malawian Kwatcha to have made which is $15 Cdn!Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-32217530731419302622012-01-31T21:23:00.000+00:002012-01-31T21:23:38.744+00:00Visiting with the SACCO employees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihen2I6AXFfnQMC3kLm9kbP9o-5LdCNblEdbM8jnGlNkrBzdribCcStCIvMfYijvxHzYiN4Aa_BlNiBPJrmZBNvRuFcCcsPPgRHRKvNIwAs60eAicGQinvKgA-2lXgFBYg_OoOq8OU8I2i/s1600/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihen2I6AXFfnQMC3kLm9kbP9o-5LdCNblEdbM8jnGlNkrBzdribCcStCIvMfYijvxHzYiN4Aa_BlNiBPJrmZBNvRuFcCcsPPgRHRKvNIwAs60eAicGQinvKgA-2lXgFBYg_OoOq8OU8I2i/s320/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">hahaha...they all had to get in on the photo op!</div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-61832931336289624442012-01-31T21:16:00.004+00:002012-01-31T21:25:16.159+00:00Elephant Mountain, Malawi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQmUKoRNNq3DUTQ1Mq5OhYdljw7bD6DNbqgE-eXmxxPJz6XeJ2HAnOHJAsw9ZKgkCERq8q2v-K1nns2TT6gDqFqqS5gVfePoEJZnve7OFyoU5H5Q2wOdjKkTpPjxyEu6tA05C80ttFIQa/s1600/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQmUKoRNNq3DUTQ1Mq5OhYdljw7bD6DNbqgE-eXmxxPJz6XeJ2HAnOHJAsw9ZKgkCERq8q2v-K1nns2TT6gDqFqqS5gVfePoEJZnve7OFyoU5H5Q2wOdjKkTpPjxyEu6tA05C80ttFIQa/s320/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-34297171855791381802012-01-31T21:09:00.000+00:002012-01-31T21:09:16.517+00:00The Mountains of Northern Malawi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdhJxWXIUpMdIbwfFIUpGg_KIfFAFMZFnoSZDHGHVMYlL7k-nE002RaJEXWfqjC1DhEcW3QHcQUHnbOwek_RJ1yjMeG6YFmOeZvlM4qFSAnEdyWkbE6EscQxRn0KrOvVqYBsWMTDTaOod/s1600/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdhJxWXIUpMdIbwfFIUpGg_KIfFAFMZFnoSZDHGHVMYlL7k-nE002RaJEXWfqjC1DhEcW3QHcQUHnbOwek_RJ1yjMeG6YFmOeZvlM4qFSAnEdyWkbE6EscQxRn0KrOvVqYBsWMTDTaOod/s320/To+Lillongwe+Jan31+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-56424569464998443442012-01-31T20:59:00.000+00:002012-01-31T20:59:01.523+00:00Back to Lillongwe we go......We travelled another 6 hours today to get back to Lillongwe. The trip could have been made in a shorter time frame but we stopped to visit with 2 different SACCOS along the way as well as make several stops for some amazing photos!<br />
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One stop we made was in the "exotic forest", they have a pine tree plantation here and I felt like I was back home in British Columbia! They have hundreds of trees and for every tree they harvest they have to plant a new one. I'm not sure what species of pine they are but they sure grow quickly! The reach maturity in about 10 years....wow!<br />
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We made it to Lillongwe this afternoon and met up with Lennie and Roccio another CCA coaching team. Lennie and I are friends from our trip to Ghana together last year and I've never received a warmer welcome.....it was awesome! Lennie came running at full speed and gave me a great big hug! :) <br />
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We went to Mama Mia's for dinner and exchanged stories about our week, it was great! Then a storm rolled in and we had to make our way back to our hotel, which was a few blocks away.....in a downpour...and I mean a downpour...hahaha......the gutters which are about 1 foot deep were overflowing! When we got back to our hotel looking like drowned rats, the staff came running out with umbrellas even though we were already soaked to the core and said "oh, so sorry".<br />
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They are so polite here they even apologize for us having to get wet in the rain.....love Malawi, and love these amazing people!<br />
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Heidi in LillongweHeidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-68673387960667895772012-01-30T20:27:00.001+00:002012-01-30T20:27:27.408+00:00Meeting with the Board of Directors from Phindu Community SACCO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEdfEFXdMFR1c18PwTy_vq52qMWTzY7pOekUv5AMtO3KOq5KjySra6p-r2CiiZuQd_fzz8yosLBaYFmngjpgVnGk2u5Eora_ivV6Wj1jJWXEficFynlXISY_EqcW0JHaWohA5S5lpMESJ/s1600/Rhumphi+Jan30+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEdfEFXdMFR1c18PwTy_vq52qMWTzY7pOekUv5AMtO3KOq5KjySra6p-r2CiiZuQd_fzz8yosLBaYFmngjpgVnGk2u5Eora_ivV6Wj1jJWXEficFynlXISY_EqcW0JHaWohA5S5lpMESJ/s320/Rhumphi+Jan30+029.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-26101744783644100562012-01-30T20:18:00.002+00:002012-02-17T05:36:11.243+00:00Madame Hide and Mr. Garth....We finished off our last SACCO visit today in Rumpi, we are now referred to as "Madame Hide" and "Mr. Garth" over here, hahahaha. We worked hard to give them our best suggestions ....they were very appreciative and especially liked the Canadian pins that we handed out before we left! I was really proud with the info we were able to come up with in such a short period of time.<br />
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This SACCO, Phindu Community has faced some real hardships in the last few years......the majority of their members are farmers with tobacco crops...years ago they were very profitable but now with the price and demand for tobacco way down it has drastically affected them. But the board is so committed to this community and this SACCO....so much so they that have elected to give up all of their director's pay except for out of pocket expenses until they are more profitable, now that's what I call passion and commitment!<br />
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As we were driving back to Muzuzu...it kind of hit me.....that was the last credit union I will be working with here in Africa.....I most likely will never return to this beautiful country and experience these amazing people....I started to get a little teary about it......<br />
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I have so loved my time here, and in Ghana last year, it is so humbling and fulfilling all at the same time....<br />
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I sent my boys a text back home to let them know I was finished my "official" work over here, and I received the following back from my 11 year old son.....he said "I love u and know u probably helped lots of people with this so u should be proud of yourself"<br />
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Oh boy! Then the tears came.....<br />
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I am just <u>so grateful</u> to so many people who have made this life long dream of mine a reality....and thanks to all of you for coming along for the ride!<br />
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More travel tomorrow as it's back to Lillongwe to reunite with the rest of our Malawi CCA team.<br />
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Madame Hide in Muzuzu :)Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-17555793781357955982012-01-29T19:41:00.002+00:002012-01-29T19:41:40.583+00:00View of Lake Malawi in Nkhata Bay - Chintheche, Malawi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_pRMRYkURqlnHgA9VFuq_E9tqwP_s0QC9I-YKvAinzsZEBoHETRVuPt94F-V-tdt7PGf1ai9NRva2gDk_cP0dvj-8n2J6LLYuebR9Q1jvVlAmWJU29W8ccPzSKX96C2MZhCj-WA1NXQ3/s1600/Chintheche+Jan29+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_pRMRYkURqlnHgA9VFuq_E9tqwP_s0QC9I-YKvAinzsZEBoHETRVuPt94F-V-tdt7PGf1ai9NRva2gDk_cP0dvj-8n2J6LLYuebR9Q1jvVlAmWJU29W8ccPzSKX96C2MZhCj-WA1NXQ3/s320/Chintheche+Jan29+017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-9756784988686774162012-01-29T19:35:00.002+00:002012-01-29T19:35:48.161+00:00Collecting Rubber from the Rubber Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr45-of5raQaqJ8XQRHChaJ-TVQ6W4jPpPvcVesAyPMcBK0SeLvc7_uUUKyBdjsA7sfEcKZkGq1fd3ODfmdPXXcMEA7x_mEv2XEUjGYEAtFqC-A4CcKItod5bGOc7biguTcGzcnghpMaWc/s1600/Chintheche+Jan29+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr45-of5raQaqJ8XQRHChaJ-TVQ6W4jPpPvcVesAyPMcBK0SeLvc7_uUUKyBdjsA7sfEcKZkGq1fd3ODfmdPXXcMEA7x_mEv2XEUjGYEAtFqC-A4CcKItod5bGOc7biguTcGzcnghpMaWc/s320/Chintheche+Jan29+012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5612410905230728890.post-14119807839335898162012-01-29T19:29:00.000+00:002012-01-29T19:29:07.732+00:00Rubber Tree Plantation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfvgINtYQPVjsdQK2i0n9YkFAEzSpc_tNjfmajEQxQUZOueApxNyLgFcF-J5-A7ojdFrMl4pIj8TMk7qw-l_uiF4aegBYLTiYMGlTD9L2Lm2F7S8hTVHOOAUcZW0e3_M3BMYm_UIx5xTn/s1600/Chintheche+Jan29+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfvgINtYQPVjsdQK2i0n9YkFAEzSpc_tNjfmajEQxQUZOueApxNyLgFcF-J5-A7ojdFrMl4pIj8TMk7qw-l_uiF4aegBYLTiYMGlTD9L2Lm2F7S8hTVHOOAUcZW0e3_M3BMYm_UIx5xTn/s320/Chintheche+Jan29+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Heidi Miller http://www.blogger.com/profile/13076115235676170744noreply@blogger.com0