Hiking, Bats and other fun

July 23, 2011
(Hamle 16, 2003, ec)

Hello everyone, it’s Holty or Mrs. Sloan. I hope everyone is doing well back home. We had a great day today as we went on a hike throughout Diré Dawa from 9am until about 4pm. We started by leaving the school compound and then walking through the streets of the city. There were many people out and about on the streets today; selling their foods and goods, running their errands, and traveling to get their much needed food and water. I highly enjoyed just taking everything in as we walked through the streets and observed their way of life.

There is definitely a big temperature difference from Meki to Diré Dawa; which surprised me that there could be that much of a difference. We finally came to the edge of town and made our way up this big hill. There was somewhat of a path that we followed as we made our way to the top but there were also times when we had to create our own way to continue the climb. About half-way to the top we decided to grab some water and take a quick break. The view of the city was so amazing! I can’t wait for everyone to see our pictures because sometimes words just can’t describe. We finally made it to the top of this big hill and then had to make a choice to go to the cave or the springs first. We decided to go to the cave. So, we made our way down the big hill on the other side and finally arrived at this big cave. Many of the people of the town followed us there and watched as we went down the stairs to the main opening of the cave. Immediately, we could here the squeaking and flapping of the many bats that lived in the cave. Let’s just say that Dols was completely freaking out. He is highly afraid of BATS. About half of the group decided to venture into the cave and the other half stayed up top and waited. I was a little hesitant at first to go into the cave but I decided why not as many of the other kids did, too. We went Indiana Jones style and lit some tires on fire to light our way. We started our short descent right into the home of all of the bats, and they were flying and squeaking all over the place. You could feel a breeze from them flying around. Clayton and I were towards the back and at one point the guys with the torches kind of forgot we were back there and let’s just say it was a little too dark for me as we could hear the bats whizzing by our heads. We were also quoting the movie, Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, which made us laugh so hard! GUANO!!!! The cave was a great experience and one I will never forget.

Next, we took the long way through town and made our way to a fresh spring. The hike was pretty far but to be honest, for me, it was so great to be outside getting some exercise (I don’t think everyone agreed with me). The weekends are pretty fun as we get to venture out and get a little time to relax from teaching. We finally made it to the final destination and everyone put their feet into the water and some even decided to take a little bath; fully clothed of course. We then had some lunch, spaghetti and French toast of course, as we were all in need of a little extra energy. After about an hour lunch, we made our way back to the school. This time, we took the main path that many people take when they are traveling to and from the springs to get their own water. I couldn’t believe how far some people had to travel. There were women and children carrying some pretty big loads of food and water and all I had was a small backpack and I was sweating and so thirsty. It makes you really appreciate the accessibility of water back home.

Before we got back to the school, we stopped at a small store and bought some water; which I think the group downed in less than 2 minutes. Today, was a great experience and for me, a way to relax. The students did an awesome job as the day was pretty long and a little tiring. Let’s just say that they should sleep very peacefully tonight Well, I think that is all I have for today. Like I said, you are missed at home but we are all doing well here and taking care of each other so there is no need to worry. Love to everyone and God bless!!!!