Reality and my Birthday

Today, in about four hours, we begin the end of our time here in Plaridel.

I woke up about an hour ago but two of my friends were up already, never having reached their beds last night! I like being up before everyone else. It is often the only time I spend on my own.

We will begin the morning at 8 am with prayer and the national anthem and then the "Municipal Development Planning Seminar" will begin!

Raquel and I are last, at 2 pm! We realize that, by that time, folks will be tired, hungry and ready to stop listening to us speak in English. Our presentation is short and sweet and involves a participatory exercise. Just to get people up and moving and to make a point about collaboration.

Last night (this morning?), at two minutes after midnight, everyone came to me singing "Happy Birthday"!!!! It was so lovely! Especially given how tired and stress people have been. It was a great way to begin this shiny new year.

This is a group photo we took after our presentations on Saturday. Just so you can meet the whole group! Our professor is the one in the middle with the long necklace.

Wish us luck!