Tired but happy.

This week, unfortunately (maybe still), my body gave up again. I had to deal with stomach and intestinal problems and a cold. Nevertheless, I desperately wanted to work, especially because I had taken the week off from school. So, from Monday to Wednesday, despite feeling tired, I worked in the soup kitchen. And even though I'm still not feeling well today, it was definitely worth it. Working in the soup kitchen and being with the children there gives me so much in return and it feels really good! As you can see in the photos, the children bring a huge smile to my face and make me truly happy.

In Monica's Soup Kitchen "Home of Good Hope", we work from 10 am to about 2:30 pm. In the morning, there are a few babies, mostly toddlers, and occasionally some school children who arrive one by one. During the first hour, you can interact with the children, play with them, or simply cuddle with the little ones 😊 After singing and praying together, we start serving meals to the little ones. Even though the portions are tiny - like really tiny - the children are grateful and satisfied. There is a small hut with benches on the premises where the food is distributed and eaten. Once the children finish eating, they bring their plates and spoons outside, where two or three women wash and dry them. Afterwards, the children receive a piece of fruit or a little bit of milk. Since there is not enough space for all the children who are yet to come, those who are done eating have to leave soon. Gradually, more and more children arrive. Sometimes only a few at a time, but sometimes also in large groups. The children walk up to 1.5 hours to get to the soup kitchen. The little three- to five-year-olds in the morning often don't have to walk as far, but they often walk alone(!!). It's unimaginable in Germany that a three-year-old walks to kindergarten alone - even though it's usually much safer there.

Most of the time, we help with serving meals, distribute fruit and milk, or spend time with the children when it's quieter.

On Wednesday, it was Laura's last day in the soup kitchen, and it was really beautiful to see how warmly everyone said goodbye to her. The sadness and gratitude were immense, and I was very happy for Laura. Especially because I haven't experienced much gratitude in my projects (which sounds worse than it actually is) 😊.

Yesterday, I gave my body a break and stayed at home. However, in the afternoon, I went to the airport to say goodbye to Malin, Madita, and Daniel. I still can't quite believe that in two weeks, I will be standing at that same gate myself. I will probably only fully realize this in the next two weeks.

Today is a national holiday here, Africa Day, and there are no real plans for today and the rest of the weekend yet. First, I need to get well again 😊☀️.

I'm sending you hugs and greetings from the balcony with morning sun and homemade ginger-lemon tea ☕️