tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21595991816358467362024-03-04T20:43:37.994-08:00Travels among travelsCara Tabronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350640755918522254noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2159599181635846736.post-34245958001177806142015-04-11T06:03:00.001-07:002015-04-11T06:03:36.324-07:00In Bangladesh with World Vision 2015: The story behind the photos<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>AR-SA</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:107%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you for taking the time to read about my Bangladesh
and World Vision experience. Like many of my travels, it takes time after I
return to fully realize the impact of such a journey. This blog is made up of
the journal entries I kept while in the areas of Dhaka, Barisal, and Kalkini of
Bangladesh. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: yellow;"><b>How it all began:</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was small, Canadian television was plastered with
commercials from World Vision and organizations like it unveiling the horrid
living conditions of children from around the world. The only difference
between me and those I saw on the screen was chance of our births. I had
promised myself that when I was able to, I would sponsor a child.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During my first full time year of teaching, around Easter
2007, I found myself home alone. I am not sure why I was…someone was always
home, and it was rare that I was home; I was working full time while completing
courses for my Masters of Education. God may have had a play in this. I heard a
knock at the door around midday to find 2 girls, around 16 years old standing
in front of me wearing proud their World Vision badges and profiles of children
in need in hand. To their surprise, I had welcomed them in with enthusiasm. You
can choose the child you wish to sponsor, as well as where they are from. In
hand they had 4 ready profiles. These were the children who were now considered
critical. I imagine that sponsorship is similar to adoption, with the newborns
and younger babies going first. I asked for the child that had been waiting the
longest. It was then that I had a first glimpse of Ranojit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">April 5th:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I write from an Etihad plane, fully boarded and about
to depart from Abu Dhabi to Dhaka, Bangladesh. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been sponsoring a little boy named Ranojit since Easter
time in 2007. Eight years later, I finally get to meet him and his family.
Feeling blessed for this doesn’t begin to describe the gratitude I have for
being able to do this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I regret that I haven’t sent him letters over the time of
the sponsorship (a few had been written but never sent). I am hoping that this
visit would make up for that. This trip would have been next to impossible from
Canada. Living in the UAE has made this and other dreams possible. God may have
also had a hand in this. When I contacted World Vision in November 2014 to
start planning, they informed me that this was the last year that World Vision
would be working directly with Ranojit’s village, for now they were reaching a
level of independence. Had I waited another year to come, it would have been
too late.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There have been recent advisories to Ranojit’s area and have
suspended sponsorship visits according to their website that I checked before
leaving for the airport. Mine as of now has been confirmed. I’m nervous, but
I’m confident in my safety through this adventure. I can’t wait to share this
story with friends and loved ones. I hope this encourages others to do the
same, or some other way to help out their communities using their passion for
change. People have asked me why. Why World Vision? Why Canon’s Cause? Why
Bridge House? Simply because it makes my heart happy to see happiness in
others. In a way, I’m completely selfish!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">April 6th</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The hotel here in Dhaka is peaceful and is of high standards
for the area. Despite the craziness of the city and looks of the mattress, I
had a really good sleep. Today I will have a brief meeting in the city at the
World Vision office here in Dhaka, and then a 7 hour car ride into the country
to the area of Barisal. Today an older gentleman caught me deep in thought at
the hotel breakfast area as I looked out into the fountains. “We’re so busy
with our day-to-day lives that we must stop to look at the beauty around us”.
Exactly, sir.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzYW8xwhRxc2qGb3NlH6uIAbG9LD7gSwmCWv5apDrjj2MvfpH5WqSoaKGvjtg1iU4RcSXGtXY3Ilds_bP9SfhhF-KgcWcg1wP3zNA-pcwfgYDyQ48XKb7mHGlTuE3xHbD8nuq3D09-Lw/s1600/IMAG0688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzYW8xwhRxc2qGb3NlH6uIAbG9LD7gSwmCWv5apDrjj2MvfpH5WqSoaKGvjtg1iU4RcSXGtXY3Ilds_bP9SfhhF-KgcWcg1wP3zNA-pcwfgYDyQ48XKb7mHGlTuE3xHbD8nuq3D09-Lw/s1600/IMAG0688.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsgS2eu9BQSWPdUJLY-lokojcuHGMTEx5KAkowfKsfrcpi0HUobVA-VC1KG2bR4gxpOk2DEdDEgW9tUmxibHp0Tt7udrBWdPURMLxISgPxCZe7C997KL0z4lRYsdvJoRLORD8jCPHLrk/s1600/IMAG0689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsgS2eu9BQSWPdUJLY-lokojcuHGMTEx5KAkowfKsfrcpi0HUobVA-VC1KG2bR4gxpOk2DEdDEgW9tUmxibHp0Tt7udrBWdPURMLxISgPxCZe7C997KL0z4lRYsdvJoRLORD8jCPHLrk/s1600/IMAG0689.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ictNJMOoyBgVmtvoSM5SRfXnQw_dliuvCGxA5Uy-qdDH1BKBf_mgikzNQmpTMiMQrjC7TC7hPuU0Gnq0LsWRkeAVgYIYUhALICd401dTrd2osHWtp53bj89Kyl22t14zplpWd_rmG4E/s1600/IMAG0694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ictNJMOoyBgVmtvoSM5SRfXnQw_dliuvCGxA5Uy-qdDH1BKBf_mgikzNQmpTMiMQrjC7TC7hPuU0Gnq0LsWRkeAVgYIYUhALICd401dTrd2osHWtp53bj89Kyl22t14zplpWd_rmG4E/s1600/IMAG0694.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZUTGGt74Lu81nYe0oZrJkSDk6C4VXTnoEhyphenhyphenBo7JQOfTH-GQdn4mKJE7q6W07x_Sss_mUKER6s6aW5iE133j6urEdOE7SNLquxZVDDhplUPtlbmf0oA4gTyVHv4PIzIcd71VtzO2bCXA/s1600/IMAG0708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZUTGGt74Lu81nYe0oZrJkSDk6C4VXTnoEhyphenhyphenBo7JQOfTH-GQdn4mKJE7q6W07x_Sss_mUKER6s6aW5iE133j6urEdOE7SNLquxZVDDhplUPtlbmf0oA4gTyVHv4PIzIcd71VtzO2bCXA/s1600/IMAG0708.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislcUjJBUQl5nCifWRx8xr5aGcY_PzSPh1MTMY1Hxz_TZI_BLEwkKt_1I2pHY3-doOfEx0Hx9rKGATF0xdPP_nI2aU2Vr_I4KCSGrNwTQCHqOJD9uRAZmHNdfXq0qnX4UfFkl81dlZwDQ/s1600/IMAG0715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislcUjJBUQl5nCifWRx8xr5aGcY_PzSPh1MTMY1Hxz_TZI_BLEwkKt_1I2pHY3-doOfEx0Hx9rKGATF0xdPP_nI2aU2Vr_I4KCSGrNwTQCHqOJD9uRAZmHNdfXq0qnX4UfFkl81dlZwDQ/s1600/IMAG0715.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyI6sgl-0CcdX66KNAap3BE_I4-E9qeVXYVHEsVOSsIBJwyrVhP_P7lvLbuC0U4f1kv-ie28bXsd2IxnjDgU0zCdVWFR0YP-QmkjahoZyoFGzZNfdsTysosOhUpNoUbla6k3vuF72kmns/s1600/IMAG0725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyI6sgl-0CcdX66KNAap3BE_I4-E9qeVXYVHEsVOSsIBJwyrVhP_P7lvLbuC0U4f1kv-ie28bXsd2IxnjDgU0zCdVWFR0YP-QmkjahoZyoFGzZNfdsTysosOhUpNoUbla6k3vuF72kmns/s1600/IMAG0725.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYquBjFooLFA3jAwDiMOnSFMcFi8of8_pthwF0qLLvdfMark8lTNlkoGRUquALzGhFouKCxq6ZvRJNxjblSWKyTldJ4w8W-duAyR0t4ngCyZJVLw2C4K8dSPqv4bQxE-tllKNsX5y5afk/s1600/IMAG0732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYquBjFooLFA3jAwDiMOnSFMcFi8of8_pthwF0qLLvdfMark8lTNlkoGRUquALzGhFouKCxq6ZvRJNxjblSWKyTldJ4w8W-duAyR0t4ngCyZJVLw2C4K8dSPqv4bQxE-tllKNsX5y5afk/s1600/IMAG0732.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqYcLpVadDtS16tzZpNS0GKNDVgUKLeykQA8QBUvklxkET-Kr2toGXGnxLi8Ak5ClvxtpElw9Sopr_m34yariyILvN7XFiwMI-H7OJzrQ5UqzRH1z3M1SaAsz_tZbhCU8u8w9OZ3LujI/s1600/IMAG0753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqYcLpVadDtS16tzZpNS0GKNDVgUKLeykQA8QBUvklxkET-Kr2toGXGnxLi8Ak5ClvxtpElw9Sopr_m34yariyILvN7XFiwMI-H7OJzrQ5UqzRH1z3M1SaAsz_tZbhCU8u8w9OZ3LujI/s1600/IMAG0753.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UpRWjZsGcLiu2r8blVRpriAD70kg3vjh3ySKSIBEYZRWmIBG6iACfHyuHjA7zWaeNd1-FfM-F72P7r2QD3Icsuk2pmbauB-waTchm1WO16iFjDlNiSYqOcVmIyKf5YVDcGPCcQN8Cs0/s1600/IMAG0760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UpRWjZsGcLiu2r8blVRpriAD70kg3vjh3ySKSIBEYZRWmIBG6iACfHyuHjA7zWaeNd1-FfM-F72P7r2QD3Icsuk2pmbauB-waTchm1WO16iFjDlNiSYqOcVmIyKf5YVDcGPCcQN8Cs0/s1600/IMAG0760.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg191mZLnS6rCXolUHhmtHKz8sisNxYxgAcKqzKzgfKh8au3Y1xOF1L_jZJDiC3Dm7tusRy-QrEKzFNEZEf1zJvn4-tLYdQPLzMAuqhpZPb0WJIeyHYvl6gGqkU8qkC3XNxkbCr9L77j8k/s1600/IMAG0761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg191mZLnS6rCXolUHhmtHKz8sisNxYxgAcKqzKzgfKh8au3Y1xOF1L_jZJDiC3Dm7tusRy-QrEKzFNEZEf1zJvn4-tLYdQPLzMAuqhpZPb0WJIeyHYvl6gGqkU8qkC3XNxkbCr9L77j8k/s1600/IMAG0761.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-wggA_fKtHjl6IG4Dq61idKCcJx9_4e1lvAjp_m7X19h5U46bj1ACNw0sXu2M2nySz1RsUAFawDV_FbM-weOChj9xM5GWbfNqlE8Yfx46yT1EqVhdIroP5bxIcDD97e55itCrRvd_Wo/s1600/IMAG0806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-wggA_fKtHjl6IG4Dq61idKCcJx9_4e1lvAjp_m7X19h5U46bj1ACNw0sXu2M2nySz1RsUAFawDV_FbM-weOChj9xM5GWbfNqlE8Yfx46yT1EqVhdIroP5bxIcDD97e55itCrRvd_Wo/s1600/IMAG0806.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4yqO3b7XfNj7zfc6GDnctSwtttaMuCr37AzR5-8ZKIe9QsKl_F2mj3_WoXDLxIWofaUPtdmLGakmqCI36R4Gbtqvr_7ctKrPmtSGoOu90kN53o6_dorYfQa7Ww5zkKlX-ojrUTRZ9X8/s1600/IMAG0810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4yqO3b7XfNj7zfc6GDnctSwtttaMuCr37AzR5-8ZKIe9QsKl_F2mj3_WoXDLxIWofaUPtdmLGakmqCI36R4Gbtqvr_7ctKrPmtSGoOu90kN53o6_dorYfQa7Ww5zkKlX-ojrUTRZ9X8/s1600/IMAG0810.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVrk9JBXSCDPhWPzd-4QnvcwPl-HRFDbm9S6aP0sbrTrfLTkgNf8QcN2RusoWNUzw2IogkOjDGVDI_nidWM5GYE-aieDIXBFwd3IpBRhGhOi3SUgi4nEpeKhbNztNGCMVFIXi6txjQyM/s1600/IMAG0811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVrk9JBXSCDPhWPzd-4QnvcwPl-HRFDbm9S6aP0sbrTrfLTkgNf8QcN2RusoWNUzw2IogkOjDGVDI_nidWM5GYE-aieDIXBFwd3IpBRhGhOi3SUgi4nEpeKhbNztNGCMVFIXi6txjQyM/s1600/IMAG0811.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6Jn2gn6NZ7DCLArqiK6QuOxEKWJ6ipO9EW2RQYQk3EzEwzTY9FPBhZHYlXQ4m4Daq7OVrkeUtSPe5coN-Q_OOvpcGQKcB5chewfCE3zR5yHXTAf1CT0SmxEUYiLfYE7EpdbIGNfZnto/s1600/IMAG0818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6Jn2gn6NZ7DCLArqiK6QuOxEKWJ6ipO9EW2RQYQk3EzEwzTY9FPBhZHYlXQ4m4Daq7OVrkeUtSPe5coN-Q_OOvpcGQKcB5chewfCE3zR5yHXTAf1CT0SmxEUYiLfYE7EpdbIGNfZnto/s1600/IMAG0818.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmb0t-1gFFtCBQz3h22qvntL9r_Odad2eE3IeUhBIRo8LOBWSYgbnLnNOEV5c8a8CjsgykspFs7QTlky4eRjQ6l0z5PKnSde8PDZOpJQVv_S-NEYS5u0_7N667Ihjdu8RP8ikzGexIkA/s1600/IMAG0819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmb0t-1gFFtCBQz3h22qvntL9r_Odad2eE3IeUhBIRo8LOBWSYgbnLnNOEV5c8a8CjsgykspFs7QTlky4eRjQ6l0z5PKnSde8PDZOpJQVv_S-NEYS5u0_7N667Ihjdu8RP8ikzGexIkA/s1600/IMAG0819.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisakoCX44EskImwakkNrv5jZhkCnlaprvA9uXt4PXe_tP7B4B8E9oBt8Rj5qZVNS-HVHqh9YZepiYBkgc-VIdnu4DNrpXt_UuYu0tPOf3GtnUXgAbRRrWTk0D18m27Z4iBlTO8lklII6Y/s1600/IMAG0829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisakoCX44EskImwakkNrv5jZhkCnlaprvA9uXt4PXe_tP7B4B8E9oBt8Rj5qZVNS-HVHqh9YZepiYBkgc-VIdnu4DNrpXt_UuYu0tPOf3GtnUXgAbRRrWTk0D18m27Z4iBlTO8lklII6Y/s1600/IMAG0829.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After breakfast, I headed down to the hotel lobby ready to
meet my World Vison guide. This is where I met Santosh, who will be with me
every step of the way.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">Security brief:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A kind and knowledgeable man named Ishtiaque (Special
Advisor to National Director) invited Santosh and I into the World Vision
office and quickly into the meeting room where a PowerPoint slide and a stack
of information was waiting for me. We were also joined by a woman named Rita, a
manager to greet me and help answer any questions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was horrified by a few slides and was introduced to the idea
of, “petrol bombs”, similar to what we in the west would call “malitov
cocktails”, small man-made explosives in which travelers are not immune.
Despite warnings before I left, I was clearly unaware of the depths of
political strife in Bangladesh. They told me about “hartals”, which are
political demonstrations or labour strikes. These can be announced or
unannounced and can wreak havoc. Our security would be monitored from the
National office in case of such an occurrence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hmmm….leave it to me to finally reach the brinks of
exploring somewhere that I actually put my own security at risk. God, please
guide us on our travels. Ease my worries and protect us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: yellow;"><b>Travel to Barisal:</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In many places en route to Barisal, I felt like I was in Old
Delhi: low power lines, streets lined with shops the size of closets. I would
see working along the side of the road, men in their skilled trades of wood,
aluminum, and hard metals, all simple crafts and materials displayed with
honour and precision. Many places would have packages of chips and other
savouries, leading me to question how often and expensive it is for these small
businesses to have these products brought to them. The traffic is simply
lawless.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All of this craziness interrupted by amazing serenity of
fertile lands and rivers stretching beyond what you can see.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Despite having a great sleep last night, I slept more in the
van during travel. Our original path to Barisal has been changed: I have to put
my full faith in the World Vision team to keep us safe. There has been an
announcement while we were traveling of a strike and it’s unclear of the extent
of the disruptions that this may cause.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The roads we are travelling on are narrow 2-way passages
with people and vendors on either side. Rickshaws and other small vehicles are
pulled over haphazardly. The traffic is made of various speeds, all trying to
overtake the other. With little space to move, it is of little wonder why
head-on collisions are the most common traffic accident in the country.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: yellow;"><b>Arrival in Barisal:</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They had just asked me if it was possible if I could change
my flight back to Abu Dhabi. Fears of the hartal are increasing, and it is
unknown at this point if I’ll be able to travel back to Dhaka on April 8<sup>th</sup>
safely. Inshallah, this will not upset my visit with Ranojit’s family tomorrow,
and everything else will go on as schedule as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had spoken with Mohamed in Abu Dhabi who has been worried
sick. I kept the conversation light and hope I sounded bubbly enough to put his
fears at bay, but I am scared. I’m scared of the unknown, of petrol bombs, of
strikes. I wonder what the cost of changing my flight will be. I wonder what
the reaction for friends and family will be. I wonder how the people of
Bangladesh cope with this fear on a regular basis.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">April 7 (Day of visit)</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There was even more to this day than the visit to Ranojit
and his family. I could never have expected this!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The day started off in the Kalkini World Vision office (Area
Development Project, ADP), a humble building, home to amazing relief workers
inside. On arrival, we saw about a dozen teenaged local girls dressed up and
demonstrating for World Health Day. Happy to join in the fun, they put me in a
matching World Vision t-shirt and paper hat, and I happily stood with them for
a short while for photos. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I met the amazing people behind the scenes, including
Stephen, who has been translating Ranojit’s letters to me since the beginning.
They presented me with flowers in the garden and I had some quick pleasantries.
I quickly started to realize what a visit from a sponsor can mean.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before we left, they had asked me if I was comfortable
riding a motorbike with a guide. The road is poor and not meant for typical
vehicles. Otherwise it would be a 15 minute walk in very humid weather. I had
to pass on the mortor bike as I decided to wear a dress today. The walk is okay
with me! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ranojit’s village was off the main road at the end of a long
path. On the way, we had passed Ranojit’s current school (equivalent to junior
high or cycle 2), as well as old <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>his
grammar school. I could tell from the looks of a few people on the path that I
was the first foreigner that they may have encountered. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Approaching the village,
Santosh asked me if I would be able to recognize Ranojit. Despite having many
pictures with me I suddenly had the fear that I would mistake another boy for
him. Those fears were squashed…I looked up at the village entrance and my eyes
gazed upon a boy whom I’ve only known in pictures, holding flowers, ready to
greet me and welcome me into his world.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He held out his hand and walked me to his home. The adults
and young children of the entire village were there as well (school aged
children were in school). Many pictures were taken. I couldn’t believe the
welcome and the impact of my simple visit has had. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ranojit’s home consisted of 3 main rooms: the
sleeping/greeting area, family area, and the kitchen. The house was clean and
of wonderful colours. The home reminded me to those you might see in the remote
areas of the Dominican Republic; no running water or electricity, and a clay oven
heated by wood for food to be prepared.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We sat in the front room, in the dark, free from the harsh
sunlight. As sweat beaded down my face, Ranojit’s mother started to fan me. I
was very grateful. Ranojit’s English is simple yet clear. He could understand
most of what I was saying, but didn’t have the confidence to speak much quite
yet (just like my current Arabic). Thanks to translation by my guides Santosh
and Ashish, we spoke of great football players, his dream of becoming a
teacher, him helping his mother with carrying drinking water to the home from
large distances, and being a good brother to his younger siblings. He has his
exams coming up but is confident that he will do well. He had asked his
headmaster yesterday for permission for the day off in light of my visit. I was
reluctant to ask about his father as I noticed his absence, but it was brought
up by the family that he was currently working in Singapore, in hopes for
better wages as a skilled carpenter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before the end of our conversations, I looked up to see at
least 50 smiling faces that have made their way into the home since I arrived.
They loved to see me and hear my English, they said. They enjoyed the way I
sounded. Before leaving the area, we would delight in photos with the other
villagers, and refreshments of oranges and juice and cookies provided by the
family.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was hard to leave the village. The women had asked me to
come back and made me promise that I would never forget them. How could I? They
will always be a part of me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hand in hand and in front of the line, Ranojit walked me to
his school. We would pass the grammar school first…the children were on a
recess and rushed the path and joined our journey for a small time only to be
called back by their teacher. They called out Ranojit’s name, and I was told
that they were treating him like a hero for a day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At his current school, I was greeted by his very happy
headmaster and headmistress. They were excited to see me, show me the school,
and delighted that I was an experienced teacher. They lead us to Ranojit’s
classroom. There were about 25 boys on the left, and about 25 girls on the
right. Their instructor graciously let me interrupt his classroom. I greeted
them from Canada and wished them all the best on their upcoming examinations.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The staff then brought me into their meeting room, and were
very proud to show me the table and chairs they were using that was only made
possible by World Vision. Words of mutual thanks were said. I tried to express
the best that I could, that the success of their students was because of their
hard work, and that I recognized that.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After making our way out of the village, Ranojit and his
family joined me at a Community Based Organization (CBO) that is unrelated to
World Vision and is for-profit, but share the same goals. Their current focus
was the children of the area and their education. For them, it was an amazing
accomplishment to bring basic notebooks to their students. Their next endeavor
was to create a small market on the property ensuring fair prices for all. Again,
I tried to express my thanks and recognition of their hard work as I am
sensitive to their plight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back to the Area Development Project (ADP), Ranojit’s
family, myself, and the staff at World Vision broke bread and enjoyed lunch
together. Unfortunately, I was the only one not having the dexterity to eat
with my hands and having an intolerance for spice. I was grateful that the
chefs at the office was able to cater to my dietary needs and provided me with
a fork as I devoured the prawns, chicken, fish, vegetables, and steamed rice.
It was really tasty to me, though I know it would have been tasteless to them.
The family was curious about my diet and my inability to digest the spices of
their country.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After lunch we were treated with a performance by local
Bengali dancers. The original plan, I was told, was for me to travel to them,
but due to road travelling concerns, is was safer for us to remain at the ADP
and have them come to us. They treated me like their guest of honour and I was
completely blown away by their talents and colourful costumes. For one of the
last dances, they girls invited me to join. Although incredibly shy when it
comes to dancing on the spot, I let loose and joined them enthusiastically.
When a child asks you to dance, you dance.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We left his family for a brief time at the center as the
team took me to what they called a “child-friendly area”. This would be their
poorest of the poor. The pictures of clean and freshly dressed children do not
tell the whole story. They were brightly dressed in the World Vision’s orange,
and they had just received their backpacks that day. These children would have
been about the age of junior kindergarten, or KG1. Many were excited to share
their talents with me. I was presented with individuals who sang songs, shared
their favourite bits of poetry, and their cultural games. Like the UAE and
Canada, they are trying to stress learning through play. With this group of
teachers, I again expressed thanks because I am well aware of the work they are
putting in behind the scenes with these amazing children. To the children, I
expressed my wonder and amazement of their beauty and talent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Outside the small schoolhouse a small crowd began to gather.
Many were wishing to see their first foreigner. We walked down the path where
we would see rudimentary boats along the river, looking much like large canoes
with an enclosed space, where they call home.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My time in Kalkini was almost finished. We made our way back
to the ADP where Ranojit’s family was waiting to say goodbye. I presented them
with chocolates and a promise to keep up communication. I couldn’t believe the
time was over.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After making our way back to Barisal, Santosh and I took
some rest and enjoyed our last dinner together. Our dinner for 2 included a
large portion of Pad Thai, a shared crown chicken soup and bottled water. It
had the cost of 800 takka including tip. Converted, that is about $10 US. It
started to storm. When it rains in Bangladesh, it really rains and everything
stops. We were very close to the hotel, but stayed in the restaurant until
there was a bit of a clearing. While we were waiting, Santosh got an update
from the security advisors. We were given the go-ahead to travel back to Dhaka
tomorrow, as long as we left by 7am.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">April 8: Traveling back to Dhaka</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had a quick breakfast this morning and quickly got it in
gear to head out for our 7 hour trek back to Dhaka. It was a different
restaurant, only a few doors down, with breakfast for 2 being 260 takka
($3.40). Incredible.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At one point our travel came to a standstill. There was no
one moving on the roads. I thought we were completely stuck, and felt my blood
pressure begin to rise. The driver got out of the vehicle and asked what the
reason was, and it looked like the Prime Minister was traveling through the
area. I was frustrated that she chose to go by car but relieved that the
standstill wasn’t due to hartal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part of our journey between Dhaka and Barisal is by ferry.
On our way back to Dhaka we had a nice view of the river. There were many
people who got out of their vehicles to view the river closer, but there were
also many sellers from green coconut to popcorn. My comfort level wasn’t up for
dealing with vendors, so I was again grateful for Santosh who stayed with me in
the vehicle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I noticed that there was an ambulance that boarded the
ferry, and I asked about it. I was curious…it couldn’t have been an emergency.
Was it a patient transfer? It was neither. Official vehicles like this are used
for safe travel in case of hartal action. Official vehicles were almost
guaranteed safe passage. I’m not sure who was in the ambulance or how they
obtained it, but I applauded their creative thinking.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I looked forward to going back to the hotel and off the
route. Thanks to my non-working data roaming package from Etisalat, I was going
through Facebook withdrawal and couldn’t wait to show my World Vision visit
through photos and videos with family and friends. I was however, not quite
ready to say goodbye to Santosh and my humbling World Vision experience in
Kalkini. Somehow, both of us felt that this wasn’t the last time that we were
going to see each other…perhaps my time with World Vision hasn’t come to an end
after all.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: yellow;">April 9: Dhaka tour</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I couldn’t leave Dhaka without knowing more about it and the
history of Bangladesh and how it came to be, so I had my travel agency in Abu
Dhabi also arrange for a city tour on my last day. The morning brought us to
the local university, to monuments, and to the Sheikh’s home which is now a
museum. My smiles of curiosity and wonder were quickly brought to tears as I
was shown the shear bloodbath that remains on display from his assassination,
and the toll that independence has cost the country. My tour guide Sharmin was
knowledgeable and friendly as she opened my eyes to this wonderful country that
has been exploited and forgotten by the Western world. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There was slow traffic as it was the beginning of the
weekend for the Bengalis. I returned back to the hotel just after 6, enough
time for a quick freshen-up and pack so I could be out of the hotel and en
route to the airport by 7. The hartal was ending, and the city was gripped in
traffic chaos….all of us were silent with the known worry of my making it to my
plane back to Abu Dhabi on time. The distance was not far, but the snarling of
traffic makes everything take an extremely long amount of time. I know that God
had continued to watch over me, and I made it safe and sound to the airport on
time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like India, Bangladesh seems to have a “white privilege”,
especially with women. I was quickly guided to the shortest lines and given
priority in many situations. Thinking back to the hotel in Barisal, the
military guard stopped all who was using the elevator so that I could use it
alone with my guide. I would not test my luck, and always be responsible for my
own safety and aware of my surroundings, but people should not fear travelling
to the area for the sake of fear itself. I hope Bangladesh continues on her way
to settling the disruptions with the hartals.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the gate, airport personnel greeted me with a free
upgrade to business class for my flight back. I was thankful for this gift and stretched
out on one of Etihad’s reclining beds. I said a prayer of gratitude for the
ability to lay down during the flight, and for the safety I had while making my
dream of meeting Ranojt come true, and quickly fell asleep.</div>
Cara Tabronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350640755918522254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2159599181635846736.post-29128667180942286392014-08-26T09:48:00.003-07:002015-06-17T10:10:16.877-07:00India<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cara, do they have cows in the streets like I have seen in
the movies?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not where I was in Delhi, but here in Jaipur where I am
today, they are all over the place!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mom let out a sigh, I know she was wishing she could be
with me, just to see some of the sights for herself. “But I’ll find out why mom,
it’s really something to see!” The phone fizzled and the connection went dead
as it so often does…one of the many prices of living overseas and calling home.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The following blog is about my experience in India…from the
truly sweet to the extreme repugnant. I thought I did just about the craziest
thing last year by moving half way across the world to Abu Dhabi, to where I
knew no one, and although using my 8 years of professional teaching experience,
I would feel like I was starting over. Travelling alone, in a country like
India, is a completely different risk in itself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each section starts off with a quote from my itinerary from
the ITL travel agency located in Abu Dhabi. As days went on before I took off, I would often read the itinerary and get real excited for this experience that was to come. After the daily description from the itinerary, I’ll try and
give you the play-by-play and see if it matches up to what was expected. Thank
you for your time to read!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“Arrive in Delhi, you will be met and assisted by a Tamarind
representative and will be transferred to your hotel. India’s capital and major
gateway to the country, Delhi is contemporary and a bustling metropolis which
successfully combines in its fold of the ancient and the modern. Its strategic
location was one of the prime reasons why successive dynasties chose it as
their seat of power. New Delhi also reflects the legacy the British left
behind. Overnight in Delhi.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I felt terrible for the representative that I had met in
India. I was told in Abu Dhabi that should anything happen to the flight with
respect to delays, that the Tamarind company would be informed. The plane
waited in Abu Dhabi an extra hour due to baggage delays and late passengers. I am
sure that if I were that late, the plane would take off without me. We
have learned here that not all passports are created equal. So…I knew that I
was going to be late from the start. Landing in India things seemed fine until
I was at passport control. Like the UAE, this country seems to be full of
meaningless lineups with no one waiting their turn and every piece of paper is
ruled by the ‘rubber stamp’. There was another hour wasted. When I met the
representative, I was all smiles to see my name in black in white in the sign
that he was holding. Not that it was any of my fault, but I apologized for the
delay (he wasn’t informed of any of the delays)…he was more than understanding.
I was looking forward to getting in the car. Going outside, the heat hit me. It
was almost as hot as Abu Dhabi, but with a very sticky humidity. The driver
found us shortly and we were off. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was taken aback by the driving on the other side of the
road. I also noticed that on the large city roads on which we were driving on
that there were usually 4 lanes paved. Nothing strange until you grasp that
there were 6-7 lanes of active traffic! I knew better than to panic. My driver
knew the roads…and he maneuvered with the best of them. I had never seen even
so much as a fender bender while I was in the country, I was very surprised!
Some wore helmets on their motorcycles while others didn’t. I perhaps didn’t
realize that I was really out of my familiar territory until I saw a Sikh
gentleman riding his motorcycle with a bandit-like bandanna wrapped around his
nose and mouth, while being neatly tucked into his turban.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Around the city streets, you would see the odd cow in the
road, apartment dwellings, areas of extreme riches, and areas of extreme
poverty. I have been in impoverished countries before, but not quite like this.
Even in the city core of Puerto Plata or Santo Domingo, you might seem groups
of homeless individuals in varying states of health and clothes on their back.
Here, there seemed to be communities of homelessness wherever there was space
to be had: out in the open, under bridges, along the river shorelines. If the
children had clothes on their backs, they seemed to be lucky compared to
others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was comfortable…that was until we stopped for a red light.
Two women of extreme poverty knocked on my window at different times…they were
able to see that 2 Indian men were escorting a white tourist. Not knowing the
area…and I wasn’t getting any advice from them…I had to keep the window up. I
felt terrible turning them away, but I just froze. I once thought that I came
from humble beginnings, now I know that I was born into privilege. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even though the flight was only three and a half hours (not
including the delays), I was exhausted and was thrilled to see that my hotel
room was similar to the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr (Abu Dhabi) when it came to the
style and quality of the bed. Alone in the room, the implications of travelling
alone had begun to sink in. I was still high on adrenaline of the venture, but
second guessing my choice of destination based on my car ride from the airport.
Feeling the need for familiar food, I went down to the coffee shop to order a
small dinner. I was thrilled to see that they had all-day breakfast on the
menu. To those of you who know me well, this was big. When finished, I was
asked if I would like anything else. I asked, “do you have tea available?” “Tea
madame? Yes of course I have tea!” Cara, you are in India. It was a bit of a "face-palm" moment. Tomorrow we would be driving to Jaipur. I was happy to be
leaving Delhi. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“Today morning drive to Jaipur (252 kms/5.5 hours) check into
your hotel. Jaipur is the gateway to the magnificent and vibrant state of
Rajasthan. Evening take a stroll in the markets of Jaipur for the traditional
dresses and shoes, curio shops, blue pottery, etc. Overnight in Jaipur.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At exactly 8:30am as planned, my driver was there in front
of the hotel lobby to pick me up to travel to Jaipur for the next few days. I
was thrilled to have the same driver throughout my whole experience. We were
able to build up a rapport, and I knew I
was safe with him. I learned that he had a daughter and a son, as well as “one
expensive wife” as he put it. His children were in their teens, and his wife
worked in the home. They lived in the countryside. He has an apartment in Delhi
so that he can work in the city. His wife has no education or job. Things are
very simple still in the countryside. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we drove on, it was very clear that each area and region
of the country can differ greatly from one end to the next. Although being from
the simple countryside, my driver, Mr. Palakdhari, knew every inch of his
route. If the land was changing in value he would let me know. At the site of
industry, it would mean that rent has just risen for the residents. Before long
we were in between major cities and in the long path of rural India. Cows of
course, are a holy site. I asked about the farmers. Unfortunately, their lives
are like farmers elsewhere. They cultivate the land, take care of the
livestock, and feed the country. The fruits of their labours are
exploited at the market place by clever businessmen and they are left to make
ends meet…maybe. This has gone on, and will continue for generations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We came upon one town that had a monorail system above us as
we drove under its bridge. It was as if the area tried to modernize itself, but
it left the people behind. Also on our route I discovered the first of many
toll booths that we would have to pass. I asked if the tolls collected from
passengers were used in any way to help the citizens. Although Mr. Palakdhari
had limited English skills, his laughing response told me the answer. I asked
the same question later on with one of the tour guides. His answer was more
positive, but it felt scripted. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other than the main roads, there really is nothing around in
the country areas. That means that if traffic stops, you are stopped
indefinitely. Drivers were stopped within their lanes and in between them.
Now…all of these people had to somehow turn around in this mess. It was like
watching clever tetris pieces; somehow the drivers were careful around each other
and we were able to turn and go back (yes, driving in the opposite direction we
should have been driving). On-coming traffic slowed and turned with the rest of
us. Off to our right, we noticed a car stuck on a shallow median. The car was
trying to cross over onto a slip road to try and get around the traffic. My
driver got out and guided the others. Their small sedan was just too small to
take it. Sizing up the SUV we were in, my driver got back in his seat and took
on the median himself. Slowly and carefully we made it onto the slip road and
we were again on our way. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Look madame, see that milk truck? It says ‘milk not for
sale’.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why would there be a milk truck with milk that isn’t for
sale?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know madame, it makes no sense to me at all! It’s
very strange!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking back, I don’t know why this was so funny to me at
the time. Perhaps you had to be there. It was as if Mr. Palakdhari, a lifetime
citizen of the country had no idea of some of the logic in his own country. For
those of you with me in the UAE, I’m sure you can relate to a number of similar
examples here. I just had to share this part.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was looking forward to this walking of the nearby markets
in Jaipur as the itinerary suggested. I was met at the hotel with one of the
travel agent’s representatives to make sure that my check-in went okay. I was
told that I probably had another hour or so of proper daylight to be out of the
gates of the hotel area. After that, I was told to be sure that I was in the
hotel. After the long drive and traffic from Delhi, I was happy to stay in the
hotel, get on wifi, and call home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“Today, enjoy a full-day sightseeing trip of Jaipur, also known
as the “Pink City”. The city of Jaipur is the capital of the state of
Rajasthan, famous for its colourful culture, forts, palaces, and lakes. Jaipur
owes its name to the founder of the city, warrior king Sawai Jai Singh II.
Visit the Amber Fort. The best way to explore the fort is to ride up to in on
elephant back. Prominent structures inside the fort are Diwan-i-Aam, adorned
with latticed galleries, the Ganesh Pol, with a beautiful printed image of Lord
Ganesh, and the stunning Sheesh Mahal, a hall decorated with thousands of tiny
mirrors. Later, stop to photograph the beautiful Hawa Mahal, also known as the
“Palace of the Winds.” This beautiful façade with its ornately carved
latticework was designed so the ladies of the palace could look out onto the
streets unobserved. Later you will visit the City Palace…again, a synthesis of
Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The museums here showcase rare and ancient
manuscripts, arms dating back to the 15<sup>th</sup> century, and costumes of
erstwhile royalty. Later, visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory, comprising of
geometric devices for measuring time, and tracking stars in their orbits. Evening
at leisure. Overnight in Jaipur.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elephant ride? Yes please! The driver picked me up at
exactly the time he said he would with my tour guide, Smer. The Amber Fort was a
truly magnificent sight to see. I was equally impressed with the knowledge of
my tour guide, and the way he would make sure he was close enough but without
making me feel uncomfortable, in order to show that I was his client, a signal
that kept most of the locals selling souvenirs from hassling me. I appreciated
it! The queue was long, but soon I was on the back of the elephant that would
take me up to the entrance of the fort. I had never heard of the Amber Fort, and
I think it’s one of the most underrated sites to see in Northern India. The
fort contains numerous examples of Hindu, Islamic, and Turkish architectural
styles. The purpose of this was to keep everyone at the time of its construction happy. If
something was constructed in only Hindu architecture, it ran the risk of being
destroyed by those of opposing faiths, particularly the Moghuls who were Muslim.
My favourite parts of the Amber Fort were the animals embedded in the hand
carved architecture, and the palace of the mirrors…thousands of tiny mirrors
displaced in splendour. Coming out of the fort, things got very crowded. I
asked the tour guide to slow down. He was a quick and tiny person! He reminded me
that I was his responsibility and that he wouldn’t lose me. I told him he had
an easy job as I’m the one who sticks out, and I lose him quickly!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Getting back into the car, we quickly realized we were going
nowhere fast. I had come to India during their holidays, so people from all
over were coming to see their nation’s beloved wonders. You had the same
traffic with the cars as before, but now you have elephants from the tour,
cows, dogs, and goats walking among the traffic. They didn’t seem to mind being
in between the cars and among the people, and the humans were being just as
patient!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If travelling in India (or I assume in many other parts of
the world), your tour guide is going to try hard to take interest and get to
know you. Just be cautious. A few
moments after I was asked if I liked to read, I found myself within a
bookstore. I said I liked the semiprecious stones of the area, I found myself
in front of a jeweler. Don’t be afraid to say no. I was happy, however, to find
out in the book I purchased just why in the world the cows insist on remaining among traffic! (1.
The cow is a sacred animal, the people of India are not allowed to tie them up;
should they do so, they have to repent at all temples throughout the country! 2.
The exhaust fumes from the traffic act like a bug repellent 3. The exhaust
fumes cause them to get high!!!!) I couldn't wait to give my mother these answers on the next phone call.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That day we saw a few other sites including the “Palace of
the Winds” and the Observatory. It was incredible to see their instruments from
hundreds of years ago being accurate on the time and position of the planets
and their orbits. Afterward, we were to see another palace, however, I was
beat. My tourguide seemed to have taken a little offense but I was exhausted
from the walking and the heat. I thought it must have been close to 4pm..the
day felt long and I was getting hungry. When we got back to the car and I saw
it was only 12:30pm! It was time to rest in for the day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“Today, drive to Agra enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri, which was
build by Emperor Akbar and is home to many historical buildings. Akar wanted to
make Fatehpur Sikri his headquarters; however, he had to abandon it due to
shortage of water. The Tomb of Sheik Salim Chisht 1 enshrines the burial place
of the Sufi saint who lived a religious life there. Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your sightseeing, proceed to Agra (235 kms/5
hours). On arrival in Agra, check in to your hotel. Later visit the Taj Mahal…a
mausoleum built as a symbol of Emperor Shah Jehan’s devotion to his beloved
queen Mumtaz Mahal. Considered an architectural marvel, its construction took
thousands of workers over 21 years to complete. Return to hotel. Overnight in
Agra.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once again, my driver was right on time. He would take me
from Jaipur to Agra, picking up the next tour guide at Fatephur Sikri. On the
way, he asked me if I would like to see how they make carpets in the
countryside. I was intrigued, of course! The gentleman in the humble building
draped with linens to keep the sun’s strong rays out was on his knees on top of
a loom, almost unaware of our presence. He was kind, allowed me to take some
pictures and showed me his work. I got to feel the material and ask him
questions. Although happy to have been there, I realized I was just taken for a
shopping trip. I told the driver that I was sorry, but I wasn’t about to
purchase a carpet! Neither man was pushy and I thanked them for their time…I
was happy to be on the road again.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We pulled over to the side, and before I knew it, my hand
was being shaken by the next tour guide from his seat in the front with the
driver. We were very close to the gates of Fatephur Sikri. I was about to
discover another wonder of this country. The driver let us off at the main
area, and then we had to actually take a shuttle into the inner gates as it was
restricted to automobiles. We waited in the heat for a little while before the
bus had come. The passengers were numerous coming off. I had some space for
about a minute after I got on. All spaces were full, people were standing all
along the aisle, and a few were hanging from the door rails. Not uncommon.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My tourguide and I made our way into the gates, and he gave
me time on my own to wander about. As I began to step away from him, we were
approached by a young gentleman with a camera. He had said that his friends had
a wager, that he should try to get his picture taken with me. I was flattered
and then found it completely humorous when my tour guide had told me that in
the Indian culture, they enjoyed having their picture taken with people of
different colours. Whether or not that is true, or he just said that to make me
feel better, I wasn’t sure. It was going to happen a few more times along the
way. I never minded. All my life these people were exotic to me, and now the tables have turned!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After this tour, we were on our way to the main part of Agra
so that I could check into my hotel. It was 4:30pm, and they were going to pick me
up an hour later. In the meantime, I needed to check in, charge my phone and
camera battery, inquire about the wifi, and manage to eat something. Unlike the
other hotels, this one didn’t have a ‘coffee shop’. I needed something fast. I
asked the representative and she explained that a Costa coffee shop was near
the hotel… “just outside the gate, go straight and go left”. As soon as I
passed the guard, four rickshaws, some motarized and some not, stopped to ask
me where I was going. I suddenly felt very claustrophobic! I changed my mind as
I couldn’t think how I was going to cross a road! I quickly ran back to my room
and ordered a small pizza from room service. With 2 minutes to spare, I gobbled
down what I could, and met the tour guide and driver for the very anticipated
Taj Majhal.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From the gold and semi-precious stones to the finely
in-scripted Quar’an verses shining in glory, the Taj Mahal
mesmerized myself and thousands of other tourists within moments. I was quiet
for most of this tour, taking it in. My tour guide thought there may have been
something wrong, lol, but I assured him I was just appreciating the moments.
Before we left, I was in a few more photos for other tourists. I have to wonder
in all of the social media and networking, if I’ll ever see those pictures!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“This morning after breakfast explore the city of Agra. Visit
the Red Fort, which was commissioned in 1565 by Akbar. The beautiful yet
forbidding structure is a handsome example of Mughal architecture. You will
then visit Sikandra, which is also a mausoleum of the great Emperor Akbar.
Akbar designed his own mausoleum as a perfect blend of Hindu, Christian,
Islamic, Buddist and Jain designs and motifs, in keeping with his religious
tolerance and secular views. Later drive to Delhi (203 kms/5 hours) and check
in to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, I wouldn’t want to sound bored at this point…but
another fort and another mausoleum. Both in the form of palaces like the rest.
A few pieces really came together during these tours. From the Red Fort, you
can see the majestic Taj. This fort was of particular interest when it came to
its protection from enemies. As we walked across the drawbridge, it was
explained that down below in the wet mote, there used to be alligators to warn
off enemies…that is, if the lions, tigers and bears from the dry mote didn’t
get them first. The Wizard of Oz moment made me giggle, but the tourguide didn’t
understand the reference. We continued through the gates after the drawbridge
(sorry, no portcullis!). I wish that I could have all of my students I’ve ever
had through our medieval times unit come through with me. Once inside, we were
on quite the grooved incline. I learned the grooves were there for the horses,
or else they would slide (something Tara and I learned the hard way in our tour
of Petra, Jordan). The steeper slope along the way was again to ward of
enemies. Had they gotten through the lions, tigers, bears, and alligators, the
guards would be able to see them from the top and roll large stones down on
them, Indiana Jones style!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Almost as intriguing as the Taj, the next mausoleum,
Sikandra stood in grandeur of it’s unique blend of the marble and sandstone.
Designed by himself, Emperor Akbar, a true example of tolerance with all
religions, lays peacefully. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our last stop was an embroidery museum. I was to be shown
masterpieces by a man named Shams (Arabic for sun). He was a master of
embroidery, that is for certain. The following link is to my favourite piece.
It was said that he had a dream of Jesus as a shepherd with a number of sheep
around him. Although he was Muslim, his vision was surely that of Christ. The
work took about 9 years to complete, and after doing so, he went blind. No
patterns, no instructions. Pure work that was only complete when he was
satisfied:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.colleenwoodward.com.au/new-india-a-country-to-stir-the-passions-with-on-the-go-tours/jesus-the-good-shepherd/">http://www.colleenwoodward.com.au/new-india-a-country-to-stir-the-passions-with-on-the-go-tours/jesus-the-good-shepherd/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We said goodbye to our tour guide. It turned out that he was
originally from Jaipur, so we were able to converse about some of the sights
that I had seen. He had moved to Agra 5 years prior and loves it so much more as
there are more tourists for his business. Soon, Mr. Palakdhari and I were on
our way back to Delhi. Considering my first night in Delhi, I was a little
nervous to be spending a full day outside with a tour guide.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“This morning after breakfast, proceed for a full day combined
city tour of the Old and New Delhi, the modern capital of India. This
fascinating city has been in existence since the 6<sup>th</sup> century BC. Visit
Jama Masjid, which is the largest mosque in India, commissioned by Emperor Shah
Jahan. The courtyard of the mosque can hold about 25,000 worshippers. Enjoy a
rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, the busiest market in Old Delhi…noisy, chaotic
and uniquely Indian. Drive past Red Fort, President House, India Gate and
several other government buildings in Edwin Lutyen’s modern Delhi before you
head to Rajghat, the memorial to Mahatma Ghandi that marks the spot where he
was cremated in 1948. Later visit Humayun’s Tomb, commissioned by Humayun’s
wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562. It was the first garden tomb built in the
Indian sub-continent where the Persian architect used red sandstone on a large
scale. Evening at leisure, overnight in Delhi.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OK, I was surprised. This day was my favourite! I was called
over the phone by my guide. It was striking to hear a woman’s voice on the
line. Today was going to be much different than I had thought. She spoke to me
in such a way that she wanted for me to not only know about her city, but to know her city as a woman. She was dressed in Indian cultural wear, but without a bindi. She
explained her family circumstance, and unfortunately, although only 25, she was
a widow. Widows were forbidden to wear their bindi. Despite her circumstances,
she was cheerful and happy to be working with tourists. We did everything on
the itinerary and then some.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First, we visited the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in
India. I shuttered as I walked up to the set of stairs leading into the place.
Although intrigued by the mosque as all the other monuments, I was getting
tired of the monuments. I was looking forward to getting into the markets with
the tour guide. The rickshaw ride was noisy, unbalanced, nerve wracking in
traffic…but I loved it just the same. We went through the old market place
where you could find just about everything on wholesale. Indians and expats
alike were walking the streets and going about their business. There were those
who were juicing fresh fruit to customers, while others were strapping new HP
printers onto the back of a mo-ped. Some businesses had glorious fabrics for sarees, jewelry glistened in the windows of others.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We drove back into New Delhi. If New Delhi was chaotic, Old
Delhi was chaotic with no rules or regulations, and no laws enforced! New Dehli
suddenly seemed calm. We drove past numerous government buildings, all under
tight security as terrorism is a national threat. Down the main road was the
India Gate. The driver offered for me to get out and take a proper picture, but
when it is very busy, I’m not one to feel comfortable to get out of the car, so
I apologize for many of the in-car pictures. I’m not sure why, but I was
surprised for a moment when my tourguide told me that the India Gate was
actually a WWI memorial with 85,000 names of Indian men inscribed reflecting
their service and sacrifice in the Great War. You don’t read about the Indian
contribution from our Canadian textbooks. Of course, I quickly realized; as
India was a colony of Britain, the country was very active in making their
contributions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next site had my driver and tour guide shocked and
disappointed for it was closed. Neither of them had seen it like this and there
didn’t appear to be a reason why. It wasn’t busy so we were able to walk along
the gateway and took pictures from outside the property. This was the site of
where Mahatma Ghandi was cremated. She had asked if I had heard about him. I
may not have heard of the Indian contribution in the Great War, I said. But
yes, Ghandi I’ve heard of.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next we were off to lunch. I had asked her to take me to
whichever she recommended. There were the odd American restaurants, but nothing
like the UAE. I had requested to eat something local as long as she promised to
keep it mildly spicy. She had promised that she would protect me from “Delhi
Belly”. The butter naan bread and lentils were still spicy to my taste buds but
were delicious just the same. I had a mango lassi drink to help put out the
flames (it had the consistency of a smoothie). The restaurant was very modern,
very air conditioned, and the staff was very pleasant. I had the leftovers
wrapped up. There was another monument to see, but she had an alternative for
me. She knew my trip was full of monuments and that I was ready to see
something a little bit different. Something that I wanted to become more
involved in, rather than be an observer.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She had taken me to the 2 most beautiful places of worship
that I had ever seen. If you can imagine what it might be like inside Aladdin’s
lamp, you could be close to what it was like to be in the Sikh temple of Delhi.
Plush carpet welcomed our washed feet, and our eyes were dazzled by the gold
plated walls and the luxurious tapestries along the other walls. A service had
just ended, and we were welcomed to sit with the other worshipers as the book
of the Gurus was still being read aloud. I was stunned. She took me all around.
I knew I stuck out even more than before, but it didn't bother me much. Not
only being whiter than anyone there, I was also required to wear a bright
orange bandanna. We came around to the outside where water was poured into my
hands and we were to drink. The Sikh temple and its congregation not only
welcomed me, but also my tour guide. She was also a tourist in their temple as
she was Hindu. I quickly took a few pictures of the outside (photography was
prohibited on the inside) and we were off to our next stop.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bright, beautiful, and full of life were the idols and
worshipers inside the Hindu Temple. Photography of the idols were forbidden.
My camera and phone had to be locked up before entering. They were stunning.
Each idol’s significance was explained. I was even welcomed to be adorned with
a bindi by a kind man in the middle of the temple.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In one day…I was in a mosque, a Sikh temple, and a Hindu
temple. The religious historian in me was very happy. Full from lunch and
exhausted from walking, we got back in the car and headed toward the hotel. My
driver would then pick me up at 1am late into the night. I had a chance to
pack, sleep, and shower before taking off again for Abu Dhabi.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Eras Bold ITC","sans-serif";">“Today you will be met and assisted by our representative to the
International airport to board the flight for your onward destination.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm; padding: 0cm;">
Another representative met me in
the hotel in the early morning after check out and we left for the airport. He
was able to stay with me until just before check-in. The airport in Delhi is
very large and modern. I was thrilled to find out that the kind lady behind the
desk upgraded me to business class but loathed the fact that I was stuck in
security for an extra 40 minutes waiting for a baggage tag for my purse (NO
other airport has EVER requested a baggage tag for my purse). I was thrilled to
find a Starbucks but then 3 people took advantage and cut their way in front of
me. I didn’t have the strength to mention anything. Business class made up for
it. Although the flight was short, I basked in the glory of being able to
recline my seat completely into a bed with a nice comforter and supportive
pillows. Breakfast was made fresh and a la carte. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 0cm 1.0pt 0cm; padding: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now back in Abu Dhabi and into the routine of school with my
colleagues (students start next week), I am able to enjoy my trip to India in
photos and in telling stories more than I was while there. I am no longer
worried about being on time for the driver or getting lost in the streets on my
own. I can tell people how amazing the sites and sounds were, and how
invigorating it was to travel as usual. Especially here in the UAE, where many
colleagues are not able to travel on their own…anywhere, I am blessed to be
able to continue to enjoy the world. Who might join me next?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZL7ZQFxMZ3uW06SFipQpzHJu60n9CeXZqSuFEQ93Kyb_vtqtTErlxhNqqR2yvoDS510yzJCioUAYkleG8GQ9cutAkX_LzOOgOENnnvNKmePviQhFtwQtyrM3iP5CcVMTIz8VxfNLD74/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZL7ZQFxMZ3uW06SFipQpzHJu60n9CeXZqSuFEQ93Kyb_vtqtTErlxhNqqR2yvoDS510yzJCioUAYkleG8GQ9cutAkX_LzOOgOENnnvNKmePviQhFtwQtyrM3iP5CcVMTIz8VxfNLD74/s1600/3.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QFQgrVfvZ0N76frwW8OVpt3g4INdpjV6-7JTd088R2cYxZo3lBJcji5XLKu73LXmM5FrJaMbgDyof3PEo1IfIbbHgKo4K1tOlbecK8ozeVmZgS91dzXuIoVv_IQU4DEm4Vr-RIxEIGE/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QFQgrVfvZ0N76frwW8OVpt3g4INdpjV6-7JTd088R2cYxZo3lBJcji5XLKu73LXmM5FrJaMbgDyof3PEo1IfIbbHgKo4K1tOlbecK8ozeVmZgS91dzXuIoVv_IQU4DEm4Vr-RIxEIGE/s1600/12.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3_-qwFP9xVEef7_F_ghjCq8zETNaFLMKZcra5S3xBnth3OaVoknIMR75tAm3XrJ3RHHJd2mYEOiaVg7Wk-Rs8XvMR44wh9Jh_08dRnljxpBAmv-5RFv7EVbwXtUCFszbySlaDkCJALI/s1600/22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3_-qwFP9xVEef7_F_ghjCq8zETNaFLMKZcra5S3xBnth3OaVoknIMR75tAm3XrJ3RHHJd2mYEOiaVg7Wk-Rs8XvMR44wh9Jh_08dRnljxpBAmv-5RFv7EVbwXtUCFszbySlaDkCJALI/s1600/22.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbHaZJJwoRCA5GpBtN6aKyu0V_ql27taFCuypCyBuOuouvgJFAg55pa9cVpNdFvzxxIKOGFPfKSYj4ot8pS8ecjb4iqfylmgiQkX3OEkigPAjmu0h6dtsaXVvFGJ76E5SslEjpPkpdTU/s1600/25.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbHaZJJwoRCA5GpBtN6aKyu0V_ql27taFCuypCyBuOuouvgJFAg55pa9cVpNdFvzxxIKOGFPfKSYj4ot8pS8ecjb4iqfylmgiQkX3OEkigPAjmu0h6dtsaXVvFGJ76E5SslEjpPkpdTU/s1600/25.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2_QZID8fVYmhA6M0YSAcvsnoA8ovFvRT8Th-ekrk2kZEXG3qCEvH3RKzOk_8y3sysvuuLgnmGJ6Tg4j_VC9DtctTsFWyhQ99eS7QUiUJIcQZyz3Q7p-cjlnmWmo_-o6AsQYnmuFWdu0/s1600/46.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2_QZID8fVYmhA6M0YSAcvsnoA8ovFvRT8Th-ekrk2kZEXG3qCEvH3RKzOk_8y3sysvuuLgnmGJ6Tg4j_VC9DtctTsFWyhQ99eS7QUiUJIcQZyz3Q7p-cjlnmWmo_-o6AsQYnmuFWdu0/s1600/46.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFkzSdydMC7txF-aQN-hvm9hE-GeMH-hs7UspC4FWXntjUIWWSFK-UO5qLRwdNisXNLEBNdc3Sio6bURAY2aWo6NKHrnTzN1Ai-kaC1CbCWAYL00Zd978Se_oTBUQBjNa3h-k1GsWYLg/s1600/61.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFkzSdydMC7txF-aQN-hvm9hE-GeMH-hs7UspC4FWXntjUIWWSFK-UO5qLRwdNisXNLEBNdc3Sio6bURAY2aWo6NKHrnTzN1Ai-kaC1CbCWAYL00Zd978Se_oTBUQBjNa3h-k1GsWYLg/s1600/61.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNl7DClQ166z0rAih82pvQfQZiZG8U8ngxIqQPUprV3ldxpJkGdemM2GYrz4x1KSht-U2jw03JSxw405a0beYJyJ3z_2doDC1REXzlk9a4lcXn57W_50Lp1VzOkOXJ3yl0Lvir4M2lKE/s1600/109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNl7DClQ166z0rAih82pvQfQZiZG8U8ngxIqQPUprV3ldxpJkGdemM2GYrz4x1KSht-U2jw03JSxw405a0beYJyJ3z_2doDC1REXzlk9a4lcXn57W_50Lp1VzOkOXJ3yl0Lvir4M2lKE/s1600/109.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUp9JEDJOZKB2FjuWlf66vhkFTboZASDPhQHaz7q2vSqKJzPbWp16ww3qXAJ60UGNk3gZQafWNXfNtvuxswWzV759LYg_hGNsp7oREdutwTXdbP597eWGRBo9C_Wj7T681nznAyXXi0A/s1600/146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUp9JEDJOZKB2FjuWlf66vhkFTboZASDPhQHaz7q2vSqKJzPbWp16ww3qXAJ60UGNk3gZQafWNXfNtvuxswWzV759LYg_hGNsp7oREdutwTXdbP597eWGRBo9C_Wj7T681nznAyXXi0A/s1600/146.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLIUGPfVc9-baVlYcFTg_ATt8qZgoHwCZnMvc0wdx8xzs7Cbfj0CLRhSmE2rTTcmNrG-F9Sl0WIzvolelz51YYM8sHzNofC3icDCPX9S23GgVyQXpTSpv-uBewlDV6QTn7ij4z-Yhu3I/s1600/217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLIUGPfVc9-baVlYcFTg_ATt8qZgoHwCZnMvc0wdx8xzs7Cbfj0CLRhSmE2rTTcmNrG-F9Sl0WIzvolelz51YYM8sHzNofC3icDCPX9S23GgVyQXpTSpv-uBewlDV6QTn7ij4z-Yhu3I/s1600/217.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD10ZEE8hWEANgeBHfcNwGV8vQMAjJf4nvFz1Eqw_xMgpOk5cjWYfkgFQQqIpLnRgG2LQWnQJEw2w_3CLhMGojFuIMxzgftVuzF8HWoSzq1W0eKnesgcYmRtWgYb3JTzgOF6dLtu404MQ/s1600/235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD10ZEE8hWEANgeBHfcNwGV8vQMAjJf4nvFz1Eqw_xMgpOk5cjWYfkgFQQqIpLnRgG2LQWnQJEw2w_3CLhMGojFuIMxzgftVuzF8HWoSzq1W0eKnesgcYmRtWgYb3JTzgOF6dLtu404MQ/s1600/235.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVE5ZqX3c1n61C4Siqqf13j84NG_HRmKZJgDxkGX15fmFHsEglx_SnA9EbebyJ-dBCWHzlmKQGDu2zf2YCCC5FpO5En-wjaOBoV7vte8Wiy1tzuo4dDzBfbQAwZaJqSVs-pce8dVa77k/s1600/254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVE5ZqX3c1n61C4Siqqf13j84NG_HRmKZJgDxkGX15fmFHsEglx_SnA9EbebyJ-dBCWHzlmKQGDu2zf2YCCC5FpO5En-wjaOBoV7vte8Wiy1tzuo4dDzBfbQAwZaJqSVs-pce8dVa77k/s1600/254.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsXqybLFWNON8y6CTXTJEPyy2AKDKSnbbQk2QJfwa8PaV13p3ZqwKIJ-ZuZwkZcXMIEh8E5MFAEkBMUDmKD5R65Lh7J89w0m1YHDlz-9V0zLZ8rRHJinFr06_lSPVgJXS_HeFJhpS8S0/s1600/258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsXqybLFWNON8y6CTXTJEPyy2AKDKSnbbQk2QJfwa8PaV13p3ZqwKIJ-ZuZwkZcXMIEh8E5MFAEkBMUDmKD5R65Lh7J89w0m1YHDlz-9V0zLZ8rRHJinFr06_lSPVgJXS_HeFJhpS8S0/s1600/258.JPG" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p></div>
Cara Tabronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14350640755918522254noreply@blogger.com63