Amen

It is interesting to think that somewhere in my garage I probably have 7-10 partially inflated soccer balls, many of which are hardly used.  That being said, as I plan my trip to Tanzania, I am trying to plan on the items I can take with me to the orphanage.  Sometimes ideas just come in strange ways.

Mom and I are volunteering at Glorious orphanage for a week before starting our safari.  I found Glorious on the web while looking for volunteer opportunities.  It seems like a good fit for my mom and I, as we will be able to do teaching and medical care together.  (more on this in a later post).

Last week, my husband brought up his latest edition of National Geographic, which had some of the most moving photographs of the "balls" kids in Africa create in order to play futbol.  They were taken by a photojournalist, Jessica Hilltout. She has an entire collection of photos about futbol and Africa that have provided my inspiration.  It is called Amen.

Images from Jessica Hilltout

Upon seeing those pictures, I knew that taking futbols and gear to Africa would be my goal.  And luckily, I have an amazing group of women who will help me achieve that goal.  First, my super cool women's soccer team, the Natural Disasters, are sponsoring me to purchase One World Futbols.  They are virtually indestructible, and never need a pump.  Additionally, the Natural Disasters and members from my Sunday pick up game of soccer (futbol) are giving me gently used jerseys, shin guards and cleats.

I am afraid (yet thrilled) that the biggest issue I will encounter will be weight limits on my suitcases.  Of course, as a nurse, I am also taking some medical supplies as well as some educational supplies from some very generous teachers at our local school.