Day 22 - A Return to the Lubango Center

I regretted not taking pictures of the lovely ladies at Lubango Center so Delphine took me back today. Not only did I get my pictures, but we were able to spend quite a bit of time with Johanna. Lupe was hosting a visit from about 10 American missionaries who were interested in her program. Sophia had just finished teaching a self-defence class and was taking on her new role as head administrator, speaking with the visiting guests. Although Johanna will be completely handing over the reigns soon, she was open to my ideas for the centre. Hopefully between Delphine and herself, they are able to make them work. 
Before leaving, I was able to buy a few more pieces of jewelry to help support the ladies. Johanna surprised me with a beautiful fabric gift bag with their locally grown hibiscus tea inside. She remembered it was my birthday on Wednesday and I would be turning 50, like herself. It was my first birthday gift - so sweet!
Below is a picture of the ladies of Lubango: Sophia, Lupe´, myself, and Johanna. Think about this global picture: Tanzania, Peru/United States, Canada and the Principality of Liechtenstein, all working together to make the world a better place for women and children.

Delphine then took me to some shops where I could make another purchase. This, in itself, was another gift because I have been running out of time. We stopped for lunch at a small restaurant before heading back to Agape Lodge. Delphine then presented me with a large birthday card and a package of her children's favourite biscuits - so I will think of them. Unfortunately, I didn't make it back to Mandela Primary School to pick up the students' designs for the library, but the container likely won't even arrive before I leave for home. 
I was surprised later in the evening to have visits from Elizabeth (teacher at Mandela) and Ben (tour guide coordinator). Both have promised to come back either Thursday or Friday to see me one last time. I didn't end up eating dinner until 9:30 pm. 
On a sidenote, throughout the day I couldn't help but think of my Aunt Cathy(and Godmother) whose birthday was today. Sadly, Cathy unexpectantly passed away earlier this year, shortly after seeing her one last time in Sault Ste. Marie at Christmas. We have always had a special bond, particularly since our birthdays were side-by-side. She is gone, but not forgotten. Tomorrow I will do my best to get a beautiful picture of a big cat in her memory. (She was often called 'Cat' by her sisters.) My thoughts go out to her 4 children and her beautiful grandchildren who will be missing her even more than I am.