Rudisha Foundation - Schooling children in Tanzania

By Sharon Weatherall

My good friend Martha Msuya spends half her year in an woodsy trailer camp near Durham and the other half in Moshi, Tanzania – a third world country where she is witness to great poverty among the local people of her area.

One day while her enjoying a visit from her son Moses Msuya, and his girlfriend Amanda Strowbridge, they noticed a young girl walking by in the middle of the day and wondered why she was not at school? Her name was Eliza and she was following her mother with a basket of dirty clothes.

"Her mom washes dirty clothes for people and gives them back the next day clean and ironed using a charcoal iron to get the wrinkles out - she charges per clothing item and makes 3,000 Tanzanian (TZ) shillings for each basket which is equal to $1.50 in Canadian money. She also cleans bar room toilets for 3,000 TZ shillings per week, “said Martha, who had often noticed the girl trailing along behind her mother.

Eliza who could not afford to go to school, became the first child sponsored by the Rudisha Foundation. Rudisha means to 'return' or 'give back' and that is exactly what the trio are doing. Founded in 2012 by Moses and Amanda the foundation was created to provide a life changing experience for children living in Moshi, Tanzania. Moshi is 300 miles inland Tanzania and the people there speak Swahili. To date there are nine sponsored children attending school that otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn reading and writing.

During her winters in Tanzania, Martha helps Amanda by visiting schools the sponsored children attend, to collect reports and ensure they doing well in school, attending classes and thriving.

"Tanzania being a third world country is very poor. You can rent a room for 20,000 TZ for a month and for 1,000 TZ  - equal to seventy five cents, you could buy a beer or pack of smokes," explained Martha.

"School fees are different at each school and we are only sponsoring public school ages - not high school kids. The most expensive fee we are paying now is $199 per year and that is only the school fees not including the uniforms and shoes which must be provided by the parents."

 Elizabeth John Mamuya whose mother Catherine washes clothes, was born in November 2007. The six year old must ride a bus to kindergarten which costs 15,000 TZ or about $10 per month extra. She attends a Catholic Day Care Centre at a cost of 300,000 TZ and is so happy to be attending school and learning. Because she is a sponsored child, the Rudisha Foundation will continue to see her right through public school.

Another lucky family of boys from the community has been sponsored and are all attending different schools thanks to the Rudisha Foundation. Ally Ramathani Rashidi born April, 2007 is the youngest child sponsored, along with his older siblings, Hassani Ramadhani Rashidi born in October, 2003 and Rashidi Ramadhani Rashidi born January, 1998. The school fees for Ally who wants to be an airplane pilot when he grows up, are 25,000 TZ per year.  For Hassani who wants to be a teacher someday, it costs 25,000 TZ to attend school. The cost is 185,000 TZ per year (including full uniform) to educate the oldest brother - Rashidi, who enjoys geography, math and wants to become a soldier.

Mother of the boys Wahida Ramadhani and their father Ramadhani, both work very hard to earn a living and support their children but it is not enough to send them to school without help from the Rudisha Foundation.

"Their father is a sewer on the street with a sewing machine. He sews dresses, shirts and pants, etc. He takes the measurements of a customer one day and has the order done for pick-up the next. He might charge 1,000 TZ shillings for one dress. People in Tanzania love to dress up in brilliant colours and Ramadhani does quality work. His clothing looks like it has been tailored," said Martha.               

Lucas Gift Costatin born February, 2007 lives with his guardian Stephanie Denis Ritte and attends school with fees totalling 77,000 TZ which are covered by the Rudisha Foundation.

Lucas' sister Julieth Costatin born October 2002 is being educated at a cost of 101,000 TZ per year and 47,800 TZ for uniform, books etc. She is cared for by two guardians - her aunt Deograsia Denice Ritte and a retired school teacher named Christina B. Ritte. Julieth who had never attended school before, spent her time babysitting and helping her aunt.
"Both of their parents died from AIDS and that is why they now live with guardians. Lucas loves to come and show me his work. It is so impressive to see when he would not otherwise have had a chance to learn. I take him out for a Coca-Cola for a treat," said Martha.

Siblings Joel Elisante Mmari born July, 2000 and his sister Nancy Elisante Mmari born March,1999 are both sponsored by the Rudisha Foundation to attend school at a cost of 42,000 TZ per year and 115,000 TZ per year, respectively. Before school they were selling mangoes and whatever fruit is in season.

 "Whatever is ripe they go out with a bucket on their heads selling at the market. This past Christmas the two of them came to my house and helped me to decorate my tree - they were so amazed at the tinsel. I shut the lights out to show them how it sparkles. They had never seen such a thing before," said Martha.

Little Noel Albert Leonard Lema born May, 2008 is now attending school in Moshi with fees of 300,000 TZ per year covered by the Rudisha Foundation. He is the middle boy from the family of  a woman who does house cleaning for Martha.
It is important to Martha, Moses and Amanda that the sponsorship commitment of children is long term so they can complete public school able to read and write.

"Amanda and Moses first got the idea when they saw little Eliza following her mother with a big plastic basin of clothes and wanted to give her a chance. They left me with the work to find an English speaking school and what it would cost before carrying through with the sponsorship and since then that one sponsorship has grown to nine," said Martha who is called 'bee-bee' meaning grandmother by many children.

"We are looking for help with sponsorships and donations. People can commit to any amount - even $20 a year would help to send a child to school. There are two kinds of schools including government schools which are not as upper class but English schools are more expensive. They go from $20 - $200 to pay for a child for a year."

Martha Msuya who is of Mennonite background, has lived in Tanzania as a winter resident since 2004 and come to love the country that her husband El Msuya (now deceased) came from. Each year when she goes home to Africa she takes clothing, notebooks, school supplies, jigsaw puzzles and other items to give for the people, seeking sponsors here at home to help cover the cost of extra luggage.

Amanda Strowbridge, originally from Nova Scotia lives with Moses Msuya, in Tanzania where Moses flies hot air balloons. The couple is very passionate about the country and its people. Living in a third world country with its dirt roads and lack of infrastructure, is a big change from Canada. Most people have to walk five miles for water and carry it back home in a pail on their head. The Rudisha Foundation believes education is an asset that will help Tanzanian children move ahead in life. It is a good start.

Please visit the www.tembotours.com  sponsorship page to learn more about each child and how you can help. You will see photos of the children and the schools they attend and read stories of Martha's and Amanda's visits from March 2013.
 
Visit www.sea2travel.blogspot.com  to read more details or email:astrowbridge@tpi.ca or martha_msuya@yahoo.com  to make inquiries.         

Molly Doodle joins the Villagers

By Sharon Weatherall

‘Molly Doodle’ - a lovable golden-doodle with a series of popular children’s books will be sharing her fame with 'We are the Villagers' – a children’s charity based from Midland.

Molly’s talented mom is artist darci-que - an illustrator and author of many children’s books, with the ‘The Adventures of Molly Doodle' being her most popular. Each exciting lesson based story has won the heart of the kids and adults alike. There are currently eight Molly Doodle adventures with books available through Chapters.

 Last week darci-que and Villagers co-founder Julianna Matyas, met in Midland to discuss an potential partnership involving a series of children's books for We are the Villagers which will not only help promote the non-profit kid’s charity but could also be sold as a fundraiser for the cause.

 “I am hoping the initial book will show what we do as Villagers and what the Villagers can do for children. It will highlight activities the kids are in and also be sold at our events to raise money that will help us become more self-supportive,” said Matyas.

“Then we will follow through with other books about the success stories of our kids. It fits in perfect with The Villager concept - it takes a whole village to raise a child.”

 Matyas says she has been looking for just the right person to work on this project and enhance her dream to develop a program to assist families and their children participate in extracurricular activities of interest to them. Whether it be sports, music, art or other interests The Villagers sponsor children in need so they can take part in these activities without being restricted by registration and equipment costs.  In just one year of operation The Villagers has already raised $72,000. and there are 47 children who will be continued to be supported in various programs.

darci-que – who has worked closely with children of all ages for the past 20 years, was thrilled to learn about a charity that helps all children participate regardless of cost. At home in Creemore she has operated a kids summer art camp for over a decade, done clowning at community events for many years along with her daughter Emily Fischl, hosted children’s parties and published not only children's books but award winning greeting cards and wrapping paper. darci-que has several other books on the market aside from the popular Molly Doodle series, including the Bumble Bee with too many Bathing Suits, and several commissioned works for other fundraising groups and organizations. Visit: www.theadventuresofmolliedoodle.com

 “I am excited about working together with the Villagers to come up with a book that will promote the group and create awareness for the good work it does,” said darci-que.

 “I think it is wonderful that Molly will be part of this and recognized as a character in The Villagers books. I believe it is the job of parents to help their child realize their dreams and that is what The Villagers are trying to help parents achieve."

During the recent meeting both women realized they beleive the same concept of the teaching and training kids in a community. The whole idea of The Villagers is to motivate kids to try something new. If the kids really like something and want to do it great, and if it doesn't work then they should try something else.

"I see this as mentoring kids to get a path and getting kids to the right path is what we want to do," said Matyas.
"If a parent doesn’t train a child to do what they want to do, how does that child know what direction to take?”

Matyas co-founded The Villagers one year ago along with Geoff Crompton from The Library Restaurant in Midland. Both parties have worked extremely hard to make The Villagers what it is today – a movement that's already growing past its North Simcoe boundaries into neighbouring communities. Matyas and Crompton hope to the see major expansion as the program becomes better known.

Matyas says the new children's books featuring lovable Molly Doodle will help to immortalize The Villagers in print and become part of children's lives as they are growing up.

As mentioned above, the first book will be about The Villagers in general while others will depict characterized stories about Villager children who have achieved self-confidence and success through participation in the program. Of course, with Molly Doodle as part of the books, she will be viewed as a role model for life lessons such as sharing and caring, stopping bullying, learning that everyone can’t be a winner all the time, and so much more.

"My idea is to have the books focus on not only success stories of the kids, but also the trial and tribulations of single parents and grandparents who are raising little ones – all of the things about life in general," said Matyas.

"As we move forward with this project I believe that all the right people will fall into place for the right reasons. I can see it happening already. We have had so much support already it is amazing.”

We are the Villagers operates through dedicated volunteers with all monies raised going back into sponsoring children's programs.  Visit: www.wearethevillagers.com to find out more about how you can become involved as a volunteer or get your child sponsored.

‘We are the Villagers’ celebrating a year of success

By Sharon Weatherall

‘We are the Villagers’ of North Simcoe can give themselves a huge pat on the back.

Since incorporating nearly a year ago, the innovative children’s charity can boast close to 50 children already registered in Villager programs and 22 active volunteers now working with kids. The organization has raised $72,000 through community supported events and has 18 more volunteers eagerly waiting for kids in programs. We are the Villagers has brought smiles to families across the area through establishing equal opportunity  - the program covers costly fees allowing more children to participate in  sports, music, art and other recreational programs supported by the organization.

We are the Villagers is the brainchild of Julianna Matyas and Geoff Crompton  - two Midland business people who believe it takes a village to raise a child. Through their passion to help others the pair developed a program that puts the responsibility on ‘Villagers’ to nurture, support, inspire,  motivate, validate and bring joy to the children that need it.

“It’s all about children and it’s for all children. We have had 44 children registered in programs since January and more applications are on the way. We should have 50 kids by the end of this month,” said Matyas proudly.

“We raised enough money to get the program up and running prior to starting and have had generous continuing support from the community with each event we have.”

Crompton says the goal of The Villagers in its first year was to encourage the local business community to participate through hosting fundraiser events themselves or contributing to Silent Auctions and to enlist the help of senior citizens whom would benefit as much from the interaction with children and volunteers. So far many of those goals have come to fruition and a reputation is growing for the good work of the organization.

“We are planning to do at least ten fundraisers per year to raise money engaging the community on all levels. We will actively involve schools, Salvation Army, Children’s Aid program and other community groups to assist us in identifying families who could benefit by our program,” said Crompton.  

Matyas says while local businesses have been extremely supportive, assistance comes through the community as a whole - everyone from residents to politicians are embracing the concept. She and Crompton recently met with Garfield Dunlop for lunch to tell him about the organization and won the Simcoe North MP over.  

“We look forward to MP Garfield Dunlop’s enthusiasm for our ‘children’s movement’ and anticipate a long lived association with him. He was very enthusiastic and says he wants to put together an event to support us,” said Matyas.

MP Dunlop inquired what The Villagers plans were to move forward and Matyas answered, "non-stop as far as it can go". She wanted to wait until the Villagers was up and running for a year before approaching Dunlop so he could actually see the success – it was a move that paid off by gaining his support for the idea.

Matyas says the success Villagers are experiencing comes through a lot of work for volunteers, with all monies going back into the organization except the actual cost to cover events. The Villagers premier function took place last June at the Library Restaurant in Midland with a five course dinner - the ‘Simply Splendiferous Soiree’ sold out. Since then the organization has hosted several more events including two fashion shows, a Valentine’s Day Dance, a surf and turf Murder Mystery Dinner, and various involvement with community celebrations.

The Villagers are really getting out there and have plenty more events on the schedule for this year. On July 1^st there will be face painting and children’s activities in the park, participation in the August 16/17 Art Walk, a third Fashion Show on October 6^th, a scarecrow making event this fall and another Murder Mystery Dinner on September 15^th  - just to name a few.

“We just enjoyed a very successful Murder Mystery Dinner and tickets sales were really good. The event was a lot of fun and sponsored by TD Bank, Union Taxi, Matyas Consulting, Library Restaurant, Jones Aluminum, The Mirror, BC Roofing and the Water Stop. It was the first time we had gone to the community so the response was excellent,” said Matyas.

“Something else very exciting is that Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program plans to partner with us – this is big news and details are in the works now.”

Local service clubs are coming on board to support The Villagers as Matyas spreads the word. Tiny Lions Club presented Matyas with a cheque for $500 after she recently spoke for them and Rotary Club of Penetanguishene did a donation in support of the Georgian Bay Cancer Centre in her name.  When she talks about the program, Matyas shares stories about the kids involved and their achievements. The Villagers has already had program sponsored award winners resulting from one sport and looks forward to many more. She says knowing that people care helps inspire self-esteem and confidence in kids.
   

The Villagers now have active programs in jujitsu, cross fit, art, dance and music programs, singing lessons, ball hockey, soccer, various summer camps and are currently dealing with hockey registration for this fall.

“Since beginning, we have now started a tutoring leg with kids from grade seven that only read at a grade two level. This will help to give them a fighting chance at high school. We have teachers as volunteer tutors who are qualified to help if there is a need and music teachers are volunteering their service to tutor piano, guitar, trumpet and other lessons which are all ongoing,” said Matyas.

“Assistance depends on the income of the parents and the length of the program. We put up the cost for the program and uniforms.  The hitch is that the kids have to promise to stay focused on their school work and do the best they can at school.”

Another personal touch of The Villagers is all children who become involved are met with on a one-to-one basis before entering a program.

“We like to impress upon the kids the importance of school and life in general by helping to build their self-esteem and bring joy into their lives.  We inspire them by letting them know that to do well in school will help them do well in life,” said Matyas.

We are the Villagers is wide spread supporting children not only in Midland and Penetanguishene but other North Simcoe communities including Honey Harbour, Waubaushene, Port McNicoll, Elmvale, Wyevale and surrounding area, and reaching as far away as Port Severn, Barrie and Vaughan.  In time, Matyas hopes The Villagers will continue to grow into the neighbouring areas of Wasaga Beach, Clearview Township and further.  The charity has both an executive and operating board which makes it different from other organizations and distinguishes it as being unique.

We are the Villagers is a charity Matyas has dreamed of starting her whole life and to watch it developing so quickly is a real thrill. To see so many community members embrace the concept and come on board in just one year has been elating for both Matyas and Crompton. However, they realize success comes one step at a time through hard work and public awareness.

“The Villagers are growing in momentum and we are trying to put on quality events to give back to the people who support us. We are trying to make the events into ‘date nights’ and something that people look forward to going to,” said Matyas.

For more information on We are the Villagers or to find out about upcoming events contact the Library Restaurant toll free at 1-855-528-5252 or visit the web site: www.wearethevillagers.com

Psychic Workshop in Penetanguishene Ontario generates positivity

 

By Sharon Weatherall

A group of very receptive people tuned into the spirit world during a two day ‘Psychic Workshop & Paranormal Investigation’ led by Jackie Dennison of the successful ‘Rescue Mediums’ TV show and Steve Furlong from ‘Feathers Academy’ in England.

The event took place at Centennial Museum in Penetanguishene, Ontario kicking off on the Friday evening with a viewing of the popular Rescue Mediums segment filmed on the location two years ago. This show aired on OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) and featured some exciting stuff including the introduction of ‘Charles Beck’ – 19^th century lumber baron and a town founder. Nine spirits were discovered inhabiting the historical old Beck Store which is now the museum. The Rescue Mediums found the building had a portal to the spirit world which is guarded carefully by Mr. Beck - a permanent guest at the museum. During the taping of the show several ghostly haunts were helped through to the light by Dennison and her co-host Allison Wynne-Ryder, while others remained behind. 

As a frequent visitor to the museum, I always felt the air there was stuffy and lay heavily on my chest. From my first visit many years ago I felt an unseen presence about and my suspicions were quickly confirmed by the staff working there. Bumps and bangs in the Great Hall upstairs, whispering voices, items being moved about and camera batteries draining in no time were commonplace in the museum and still are. However, I must admit that since the evacuation of several spirits the atmosphere of the old building has greatly improved and the air is much fresher and easier to breathe.

According to Dennison Centennial Museum was home to the “most spirits” she has encountered in Rescue Mediums’ history and therefore, an excellent place to host workshops for those who wish to learn more about the psychic realm. The second of two psychic events took place this spring and as it turns out there were spirits in the house at the most recent, keeping an eye on what was going on. One fellow – a former care taker of the building was getting a bit anxious with the gathering and kept on sighing while a little lad joined the activities popping in from time to time as well. After doing some research, museum staff reported the little boy was quite likely a member of the Beck family who had passed away as a child.

Also a female face was captured digitally by Dennison who she believes this was likely the daughter of Charles Beck - Mary. Her presence was strongly felt throughout the weekend.

“We did a séance Saturday evening and believe it was Mary Beck who was present,” said Dennison.

“We had a smaller, closer group of participants this year which bonded creating a higher energy level in the building.” 

One Barrie Ontario area woman wore her mother’s ring at the workshop. Having passed away four years prior, the mother made contact through another workshop participant and showed herself in a picture as a bright pink and white aura surrounding her daughter who is a member of the Barrie Haunted Group.

Saturday’s workshop consisted of pendulum work and participants trying to identify animal totems which can sometimes end up being totally different to what a person expects. Animal totems are spirit guides or protectors that can be anything from a bird or chipmunk to a domestic cat which takes on the qualities of other cats such as tigers, jaguars, and lions. The day involved the grounding, protection, opening and closing of chakras during guided meditations.

On Sunday participants were taken on a journey into the past through meditative regression as well as shown how to access the ‘Akashic Records’ - subconscious records which are part of the ‘Hall of Knowledge’.  Dennison and Furlong explained the best way to achieve universal awareness is while you are in a dreamlike state before waking or before going to sleep using meditation, psychic energy, spiritual awareness, yoga or astral travel. The vast universal knowledge can be used for personal healing of hurts from past and present life or to increase knowledge about questions you may have.

“Everyone has a free will and can choose to come right back or linger. Consciously we can draw on information from previous lives to help us today in our present life,” said Dennison.

Furlong spoke on the positive power of ‘Cosmic Ordering’ referring to the popular book “The Secret” which was published a few years back. He says it’s all about maintaining a positive attitude in all you do - sending out positive thoughts and needs into the universe then waiting for them to happen. He says many people in life are unhappy because they dwell on the negative.

I truly believe in this concept which stimulates a person to take stock of life and think about what they want and where they want to go in the future. Positively feeds success, while negative thoughts can hold you back.

“You need to assess why you don’t have the life you really want and deal with that negative energy and move forward. Negative energy stops us from achieving what we want and need, so we have to stop this and move past it. Negative subconscious repels universal energy while positive subconscious allows everything to slot into place,” said Furlong.

“It is important to discover what trigger caused the negative subconscious and once it has been addressed you can move forward. Situations in the past can keep you from going forward. If you spend all your time with the small things you won’t have time for the important stuff in life.”

Furlong invited participants to make a list splitting their priorities into three columns – rocks, pebbles and sand and then to write a letter to themselves about what things they would like to change in future. Doing so helped put things like family, careers and health into perspective opposite stress, worry and small things that don’t matter but can end up consuming one’s life. 

“Successful people always find the positive and believe things will happen,” said Furlong.

“To make it happen we have to connect with our energy on a regular basis. We are all connected to the universe and when you are putting something out there you are connecting with something that is greater than all. You have to decide what you really want and be ready for what you ask for – be honest with what you want. Once you get the universe to listen you have to give details and a time frame for what you are asking for. We all deserve what it is we want and we just have to ask for it in a positive way.”

Since attending this workshop and becoming friends with Jackie, Steve and Allison, I have broadened my knowledge of the psychic realm and how it works. I have maintained a healthier and more positive attitude on life. I now look forward to meditating as often as I can not only to relieve stress and relax but to help me tap into the vast universal energy which is available at the blink of an eye – the third eye.

The second annual psychic workshop drew positive feedback from participants who insisted that Dennison and Furlong come back next year. To book for 2014, or obtain more information on Rescue Mediums and Feathers Academy of Clairvoyant Mediums and Holistic Therapies visit: www.feathersmediums.co.uk

 

    

Alone and safe in Sydney

By Sharon Weatherall

Sitting on the docks at Sydney Cove at twilight watching arm-linked people strolling, there is an ambiance and feeling of great appreciation for the beauty our world has to offer.  I am caught up in the excitement of exploring this unique global hotspot, while feeling as safe as I would be in my own home town.

Arriving in ‘Sin City’ after a two week business venture in Melbourne, I’m a Canadian travelling alone and taking a few days to enjoy the sights before leaving the country.  As a freelance writer I am used to exploring on my own and looking forward to checking out what Sydney has to offer by way of tourism, culture and history. By the end of my stay I am not disappointed.

It is Friday evening and capturing an image of Harbour Bridge reflecting on the water is a priority on my agenda. As luck would have it there is an impressive cruise ship in dock - its lights glowing softly like a thousand candles. Across the water the famous Sydney Opera House is cloaked in a luminous aura - quiet before Saturday night’s busy outdoor performance. In the distance the haunting rhythm of a didgeridoo catches the breeze while some skilled indigenous player works magic on the long wooden instrument.    

From a bench I listen to a musician and smile as passer-by’s throw coins into his guitar case. Their gifts are well earned. He is a talented young singer with a voice that lulls people in after enjoying a delicious meal on the waterfront.  ‘The Rocks’ is a treasure chest of fine dining establishments featuring culinary delights from around the world and fresh seafood from local waters – plump prawns, tasty white fish and calamari. On weekends you have to book ahead or arrive early to ensure a seat – if not, you will have to take a chance on waiting.

As darkness descends I lean on the dock rails camera in hand, assessing the view before me and mentally comparing it to pictures I have seen before. I feel like I am standing in a postcard on the picturesque cove that drew me to Sydney. It is home to ‘Circular Quay’ – Ferry Wharves and marina housing transportation for travellers crossing over to Manly on the North Shore or farther out into the blue for whale watching and tours of one of the most magnificent water systems in Australia. I walk past the ferries to the far side of the quay to join others who are photographing the renowned scene reflected on dark waters. To the rest of the world ‘this’ is Sydney at night.

On the bus ride back to Park Street, I reflect on my busy first day including visits to the Australian Museum, St. Mary’s Cathedral and Hyde Park - all a short walk from Regis City Centre where I am staying. Earlier it had taken very little time to get my bearings using the helpful guide ‘This Week in Sydney’, brochures and maps provided by the hotel or just stopping to ask for directions. The city which is built on harbours, coves and bays that each feature unique attractions, scenic highlights and landmarks, is a shutterbug’s dream. There are not many roads that don’t lead to an impressive coastal view.

On day two of my visit I purchase a $35 ticket and board a ‘Hop On-Hop Off’ Citysightseeing bus to head for Bondi Beach – a renowned hotspot drawing surfboarders from all over the world. Its powdery sands and white crested waves are surrounded by cliffs and elevated urban development. Walking tours award spectacular panoramic views for photographers and thousands of others who brave the heat and climb ever higher to see what eye candy is hidden behind the next turn. The walk can be as short or long as you want while still featuring worthwhile rewards for the effort. I choose to climb down the rocks closer to the waves and bobbing bronzed bodies that are waiting for the perfect curl.  Some succeed in taming unpredictable waves while others disappear beneath the churning froth only to resurface and paddle back out again. Back at the beach there are endless shops and restaurants to escape from the sun and enjoy a bite to eat – popular fast foods, or fish and chips and a frosty cold beer.

Hopping back on the Bondi Explorer Bus I climb to the top level and continue basking in sunshine to enjoy the open scenery as we pass through North Bondi, Dover Heights, Rose Bay and Double Bay on our way back into the city.  Later in the evening I am lucky enough to attend Chinese New Year celebrations joining thousands of people gathered along George Street to launch ‘Year of the Dragon’ at a brilliant two hour parade. Before the crowd disperses I steal away to a sports pub where a table of friendly visitors from the US invite me to sit down with them. Neighbouring tables join our conversation and I feel welcome and at home ‘down under’. In Sydney even when you’re by yourself – you are never really alone.

Utilizing my 24 hour bus pass to the max I begin day three with the official CitySightseeing Tour and enjoy another top level view of Sydney and all it has to offer. That’s pretty good value for your money and a great visual scope on places like Kings Cross, Botanical Gardens, St. James Anglican Church, The Sydney Tower, Parliament House, the Sydney Fish Market and Paddington Markets, Campbell’s Cove, Chinatown and Central Station. Seeing these locations first hand really brings your map to life. I end my morning tour at Darling Harbour where there was more than enough to keep me busy for the rest of the day.

Purchasing a value voucher for the Sydney Aquarium/Wild Life Sydney I spend the next few hours studying Australia’s fascinating marine life – the aquarium is an awesome bang for my buck featuring everything from shark, crocodiles and platypus, to penguins, seahorses, glow-in-the-dark jelly fish and many other tropical surprises from the ocean reef and waters surrounding the continent. Next door I join other visitors goggling over kangaroos, sleepy koala bears and wallabies. Some of the most bizarre wildlife in the country is living inside here amongst natural flora and fauna which is unique to Australia. My voucher also includes admission fee to Manly Oceanworld which I plan to visit the next day.

Darling Harbour features a relaxing Chinese Gardens, the Maritime Museum, an IMAX Theatre, a massive Entertainment/Convention Centre and endless shopping, cafés and eateries along the popular Harbourside, King Street and Cockle Bay Wharves. Look for ‘The Star’ a five star hotel/casino/theatre as a break from the tourist routine – it’s a fun way to ‘gamble’ away a few hours. Afterwards dinner at the Hard Rock Café with its great menu is just what I need and chatty servers help me to decide on something tasty from the menu ensuring I won’t be disappointed. 

Darling Harbour after dark makes for an attractive walk along well lit boardwalks and streets. Just ten minutes from the city centre it’s a safe trek back to my hotel, but there are buses running well into the night for those who would rather ride. Either way, you will witness the nocturnal life of the city passing its many clubs, pubs, eateries and cafes. Seeing well-dressed ‘guys and dolls’ flaunt the latest styles, during this time I come to realize that fashion trends greatly lend to Sydney’s sophisticated and pulsing atmosphere. Named Sin City after a past history of the crime and gangsters, the tables turned and it is easy to see why playwright David Williamson coined the name ‘Emerald City’ for this thriving metropolis with its riches, colours and flamboyant demeanour.
Before retiring I stop at a pub and enjoy a quiet nightcap with others who prefer the solitude of wooden benches and quiet music to the flashing lights and dance beats of a happening night club. 

On day four I catch a city bus for Circular Quay then board a ferry for Manly – Sydney’s North Shore and a vibrant community on its own featuring endless shopping and restaurants, scenic walks and sunbathing beaches with surfboarders riding the waves. Manly Market Place is a shopping mecca with some of Australia’s best designers and artisans selling clothes and accessories, jewellery and hand-made crafts. For naturalists this is the place to experience top notch biking, kayaking, parasailing, rock climbing and more. The half hour trip to Manly by ferry is a highlight you will not want to miss.

After a day of bargain hunting in beach shops, a visit to Oceanworld and photographing surfers from the rock ledges, I am saddened to think that I will soon be leaving this bubbling city with still so much to see and do. Oh well, I believe that’s what makes Sydney so intriguing  - it’s a place you could revisit numerous times and still find new attractions and adventures to experience. For those touring or staying in Australia I would highly recommend a stop in this inspiring and very safe city - even if you are travelling alone.

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

REAL Straight Hair!!

 By Sharon Weatherall

Right now I am paying homage to Nina a stylist at Michael Kluthe salon on Yonge Street in Toronto - she is my hair guru.

Ok - this is a story that only people with naturally curly hair will appreciate. Believe me having it is a nightmare! I have fought it my whole life and after trying everything possible to control it for the past forty years and I finally found something that made a difference - Keratin Complex by Coppola - it FREAKING WORKS!!!!

To be totally honest, I am still not so sure there aren’t some Black genes in our family but I know there are Irish and Scottish genes for sure. Nina looked at my hair and said I was 'mixed'. Although no relatives have ever been born with dark skin, the percentage of tight afro style hair (of every shade) in each family branch is very high. It started with my maternal grandmother who had curly fine hair that she always wore cut close to her scalp due to her inability to control it. Grandma (Wolf) Webster had eleven children - ten of them had the cursed 'Webster' hair and passed it on to two out of three of their own children. When it came to our generation the gene is still amazingly persistent. I have three boys - one of which has curly hair; my brother and sister both have three children with two out of three having curly hair. In great-great grandchildren the gene appears to be less aggressive - the kids are coming out with wavy hair but there are still lots of little ones that still have to grow up and have kids of their own yet.

That being said I would like to mention what it was like growing up with kinky, curly hair when you are fair skinned. When I was a kid I was teased non-stop and called names that were not too nice - 'fuzz head', 'burr head' and even sometimes 'pubic hair' to name a few. Many a night I used to the cry myself to sleep asking God why he had put this curse on me. From the time I was in grade two I slept with brush rollers in my hair so it would not be fuzzy when I work up and every night I prayed for sunshine and no rain, wet snow, fog or humidity that would cause my hair to frizz. I did not swim as a child because I could not get my hair wet and brave the mess afterwards, I bathed but did not shower so I could keep my hair dry until it was absolutely necessary to wash it. Then I curled it with rollers and sat under a helmet style hair dryer for an hour or more to dry it.

When I visited my paternal Gramma she doused my head with baby oil and took me to church where all the women oh'd and aw'd about how lovely it was. I sat there smelling like a baby and fuming, turning red with embarrassment as oil ran down my back.

When I was around eight my mother - who had curly hair too, began trying to straighten mine with all kinds of products that burned my scalp and my eyes and only lasted a few weeks. Then they washed out and my hair was curly again. The damage often took years to grow out and my hair became brittle, dry and frizzy.

Any experiences I had with hair dressers were always a nightmare. They all thought they knew how to deal with my curly hair but they didn't. Hair cuts sent me through the roof. I would have just grown it long enough to tie back and they would cut it off - it took months to grow just fraction of an inch again. They wet my hair to cut it even though I cried telling them not to because it shrinks. But they did not believe this and for months after I looked like my mother with a fresh short curly perm. That was the era of controlling curl with perm solutions - much nastier than straighteners. They did severe damage to dry hair.

One time my mom heard that dying our hair would straighten it and after she put on a 'Medium Brown Clairol' dye I went around with pitch black hair for several weeks and a kerchief that I refused to take off.

By the time I was a teen I was pretty much looking after my own hair, washing it, rolling it cutting it and trying things like mayonnaise treatments, new conditioning trends and tons of Dippity-Doo. I even ironed it with wax paper once and burned my head and my hair – to this day my male cousins tease, “...remember that time you ironed your hair on the ironing board?" That is one I will never live down.

I had my hair straightened usually about twice a year just so it would look nice for a special event and then suffer the consequences for months to follow. Then in my twenties I started cutting it short, curling it and sleeping with a very tight silk scarf around it to flatten it back out. I have slept with clips, hair combs, foam rollers, anything and everything that worked to control the frizz. My first husband grew to accept sleeping with a porcupine - poor guy I don't think he ever saw me with my hair loose on the pillow...of course that would never happen anyway, since my hair only stuck out.

By the time I was in my forties I had grown it long enough that I could semi-control it with conditioners and product gunk - 'Got to Be Glued' was a miracle for my sister and I - our hair did not move but it did not go frizzy either. In fact it even repelled rain and moisture unless it was a downpour. With the products I developed a sore scalp and dandruff but it was a small price to pay. I mostly wore my hair in a puffy little tuft on top of my head with a hunk of long curls hanging down one side of my face. On very good days I would be able to 'let it down' and if the weather was perfect or I had had a recent straightening, it stayed thick and wavy instead of fuzzy - and that was cool. 

Over the years some really bad things happened to my hair like the time a local hairdresser straightened it with a new 'gentle' relaxer that made it break and fall off about one inch from my head. I was mortified and had to wear extensions for two years until it grew back out. This was very expensive and a real pain in the butt. The hair stylist who helped me save face was a sweetheart. She felt so bad for me that she gave me many discounts even though it took her literally hours per visit to attach the extensions and maintain them about every two weeks. She used real human hair, dyed and permed it to match my own, then used hot glue to twist the strands on burning her fingers to bits each time. For a long time it was worth the bother because gave me the false sense of having long wavy hair - I loved it but it but then reality set in. The extensions would fall off constantly and then as my new 'virgin' hair grew it coiled itself around the extension causing dreds and matting. Finally almost two years later we took off the extensions and surprisingly my own hair was almost shoulder length again.

The best part of wearing extensions was that no one actually knew - most people thought it was all my hair except the dental hygienist - she asked me right out one day if I had them and could not believe it. She had never seen anyone with them before but I am sure our whole little community knew about it the next day.

By the time I was 50 I had given up. Crazy curly hair was in and if you had it people thought you were “lucky”! My new hubby loved it and begged me constantly to let it go wild. I was not so foot loose and fancy free as to do that but I did let it down a lot - my healthy new virgin hair had not had a drop of straightener or chemical since the extension ordeal. But it was just as dry and hard to manage in the summer time. When others thought it looked nice I thought it sucked. My step-daughter laid it in on the line one time and told me she thought it always looked 'dry and damaged' - thanks!

I just gave up sort of and gave in, "This is what you look like - deal with it," I told myself. I was known by my hair and working in the media people described me as "that reporter with the curly hair".

Then last summer I got a terrible shock when I had to have surgery. Afterwards when I was down and out recovering one of my best friends encouraged me to go to the city and have people who know what they are doing look at my hair. She told me "I want you to do something nice for yourself, to make you feel good about yourself - you deserve," she said.

Helen is a Toronto girl who has a flare for fashion and the good looks to go with it - she has a mane of long blond hair full of highlights and waves. She takes hair care very seriously and booked an appointment for me to have a consultation at 'Michael Kluthe' - a high end salon in Toronto. She promised there would be professionals there who deal with my kind of hair and would know what to do. We talked of getting more extensions, only the woven kind that would last for a long time.

Helen said "We'll get them attached to the bottom of your hair and it will pull it down so it’s long and beautiful...Sharon you have to do this - you will love it!"

I could picture myself and dreamed about it every day until I walked through the door of Michael Kluthe and met Nina. The bubbly hair professional started running her fingers through my hair and lit up like a light bulb.

"No," she said,"...not extensions that won't work - what you need is Keratin Complex...it is a non-chemical product that will work wonders for you. I promise you it will straighten your hair and take the fuzziness out. It will last for up to six months and you will love it."

She gave me information on the product and we chatted for a while longer. I filled her in on the perils of having curly hair and she was very understanding. I left promising to do the research on Keratin Complex. When I got home I searched the web site and read the reviews - most were good and a few were bad but all of them said Coppola was the best non-chemical Keratin straightener out there. I was really scared to try it after the last one made my hair break off but there was something about the way that Nina looked at my hair and her confidence impressed me. She knew what she was talking about - she had dealt with this hair before and she was trained in the product. I trusted her and I wanted to give it a shot. I didn't have anything to loose really and Helen was right there by my side for support.

On Saturday November 26, the staff at Michael Kluthe joined the very few to ever see me with my hair in its original state after being washed and blown dry. I was embarrassed to be sitting there is this high scale salon with two girls drying and paddle brushing my head. My hair was sticking out like Marj Simpson but no one laughed or made remarks about it. Nina's co-workers were curious and she was excited to get going on it - for Michael Kluthe professionals it is all about the challenge. They wanted to see that product tame my wild hair and it did.

During the long application and ironing process Nina remained consistent in her technique spending the same amount of time and attention on each tiny strand of hair. She ironed them seven or eight time over with a very hot temperature to ensure that the Keratin fused into the hair follicles. It must have been killing her arm but she did not complain even after four hours. During this time other stylists kept walking by to see how it was going. I could tell they were impressed by the expressions on their faces and when Michael Kluthe himself came by a couple of times to check it out I was impressed. "Where did you get that hair," he asked and I told him my whole family had it. "Bring them in here," he laughed.

As I watched Nina work around my head I began to see the kinky strands turn soft and straight and could not wipe the smile from my own face. It was the length of my hair that blew me away - it was halfway down my arm hanging so silky and smooth, I never imagined in a million years it could happen. I looked in the mirror and could not believe it... I thought I was dreaming.

The highlights bleached gold from last summer's sun, shimmered under the salon lights and one customer asked me if they had coloured it? "No...it's natural," Nina piped in before I could answer. "It's beautiful," said the lady. One thing about curly hair in my case, even at my age it is not turning grey quickly - I have a few silver strands but not enough to worry about.

Nina trimmed it up and held a mirror for me to see when it was finished. Shakily I got out of the chair and excused myself. In the washroom I stood holding onto the sink and viewing myself in the mirror. I was in shock and so happy cried. My hair was soft and beautiful and I knew it was worth the hard work and every penny of cost. It was something I had never had before and I loved it.

Nina took me around the salon to show the girls and men that had been walking by during the day and they all complimented my hair saying how well it had turned out. "Beautiful", "Gorgeous", Awesome" were words I kept hearing. Michael Kluthe passed by me giving his nod of approval - "Enjoy it," he said with a smile. 

 "I will," I said and I have.

Nearly four months later I am writing this blog to express my sincere appreciation to the salon. I can't believe I waited so long to get professional help for my hair. Since the treatment, looking after my hair has been a breeze and very low maintenance. I am washing it only once a week, buying no costly products and loving my new look. I am still using the same Keratin Complex shampoo and conditioner they gave me and also use a small bit of Paul Mitchell leave in conditioner on the ends when they seem dry.

I got a professional straightening iron for Christmas which I use once a week after washing to keep the hair smooth and soft. I have had to trim the dry ends once and have noticed a small amount of breakage mostly caused initially from the inexpensive iron I used before I got the new one. I go to bed with my hair spread out on the pillow and wake up with it looking a little ruffled but still straight - nothing a quick brush can't fix. It took me these months to make sure the product was as good as it is. Nina was true to her word- she knows her client's hair types - she is a professional.

As time goes by I am noticing that the roots are coming in curly as my hair grows but I can easily smooth it with my new iron. Life is good as a straight haired brunette and the compliments continue here at home from people who can't believe I am the same person.

Thank-you Helen, Michael Kluthe, Nina and Keratin Complex - I wish I had found you all 40 years ago!

Sharon Weatherall

PS - My sister is coming with me next time! 

Waiting for Cuba

I am looking outside at the rain and the snow - yes SNOW and thinking I'd like be in Cuba, laying in and white sandy beach.

Oh course this time last year I was just coming down from a trip to Australia and major jet lag that lasted for weeks. We actually went to Cuba in February 2010.

Don't worry this picture is after I got home and don't think I let the snow defeat me...

Here is some fine old architecture in Havanna..it was well worth the trip off resort to visit that place - both getting there and coming back.

Next time we will be taking the safari to get a better look at the culture and way of life.

I could take pictures of walls and windows forever and have... this one was on a church in Old Havanna.  

Cigar anyone?? Does this not remind you of the movies??? Really ..almost got my butt kicked out of Havanna for trying to grab a picture of an advertising crew doing a shoot (not this one) ...wander if you can end up in jail for that??

This one was taken on the day when we left and I think it combines Cuba and home very well..no matter where you go in the world when you look up the sky always looks the same.