It hasn't been all knitting related jealousy around here though. We have had our adventures as well. What have I been up to? Well, on Wednesday I joined fellow OWC members on the monthly "road trip". This time it was a visit to a school that is one of the charities that is supported by OWC. Called Shristi Special Academy, it is a school for children who have special needs. From severe mental retardation to Autism and Down's Syndrome, they serve the needs of these children with a smile and much enthusiasm. Now some of you may not know this, but I used to work with kids with special needs, so I was particularly interested in seeing the school. I was very impressed with the is academy, not because they have a lot of special equipment, but because they do their work with a lot of creativity and and with respect for the children. Their aim, when possible is to get the children placed in a regular school. If this is not possible, they train the students for jobs that they might be able to do, either at the onsite vocational center or at outside positions. I felt proud that the OWC completely sponsors the pre-vocational program. After touring the campus and seeing the many facilities and students hard at work we were treated to a delicious lunch and then a performance by some of the students there. They LOVE to dance! The joy and enthusiasm they expressed to the Hindipop (well yes- AND "the Chicken Dance") was -beautiful and heart warming to see. Here are some photos from the visit:
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
One of the ways that the OWC raises money for this and other charities is through its many social events and outings. It really is a win-win situation because it helps us (the "expats") to get to know people and feel comfortable here and the money that we spend goes to support many schools and facilities in the area. Well, Saturday night was one of these events, the OWC Charity Ball and Silent Auction. We went for the social aspect and enjoyed ourselves very much. We got to know people a little better, enjoyed some good food and drink, danced and may have come home with a few things from the silent auction (hey- all items were donated and it is for a good cause!)
Black Pottery from Manipur
4 comments:
I'm also sad about not going to stitches west. I've never been before, so I don't really know what I'm missing, but still. I strongly considered signing up several months ago when you could still get hotel rooms and into classes. Thing was, I knew I'd be 7 months preggers and didn't know how I'd be feeling or how mobile I'd be. With the move and everything, it probably was the right call not to go. Still, I can't help but thinking, "Oh, I would've been fine if I'd gone!" Anyway, I thought you'd appreciate knowing that your misery has some company. :)
We miss you and wish you were here at Stitches (and every other time), Cindy!
we missed you at Stitches!
Don't worry, Stitches and your knit buds will still be here when you get back from your Grand Adventure. Maybe petting your sock yarns will take the edge off?
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