Back in America-sara

hey everybody its Sara =],The welcome back party at the airport was speechless, thank you all for coming to the airport it meant alot to me and to the team. It felt so different to be back here, I'm so use to having nature surrounding me, and to have the clean air smell. I looked around me, and had one to many thoughts going on in my head. For instance, the noises that the cars were making, hardly anyone had cars in Arusha and no smog coming out of them, the US people, having to be so cautious and worrying about themselves and no one else, etc. I saw my mother and grandmother greeting me with compassion, it took me back to when I greeted the children with an open heart and mind with their stories, as well as my mom and granny did. Driving in the car felt very awkward, there was no bumps on the road, and no one honking and screaming at one another, but here there is so much of it. I was so use to having Cheyenne by my side with me always and to know she is not with me everyday is troubling, ha ha, but now I have my family. I talked about mine, the doctors, and the teams tales in Afrika. Their eyes all opened with excitement and joy for me and themselves. I told them how all of us were sick at one point, except Cheyenne, who would ever think that Cheyenne would be the only one who wouldn't get sick (lol). All the stories I have to tell are all unforgettable. I look at life so differently and so grateful for what I do and don't have, and to help anyone in need who will except it and learn from it. I hope all who read mine and the teams blogs will all see and receive a gift as have I from our experiences.Love,Sara(no "h" =])

show day to safari - from julian

the show was awesome! i can't believe we did it! we were getting worried because we only taught the kids half the show (mainly a lot of songs, the ghanese Aids dance, and Lion King animals). we wanted to teach them more, but we didn't want to put too much pressure on them because they had never dance and put on a show before. also, we couldn't teach them on wednesday because we got ill. the actual show day was crazy! we went in a room and learned a quick, hour version of the show with formations and staging, all in one day!! then we did the show and it was AWESOME! it was so cool that we were able to put it together all in one day!

after partying with the kids from the orphanage, we set out on safari. the first day was all about the giraffes. the second day was all about zebras. the third day was all about elephants! it was cool riding in the land rover because there were a lot of bumps which made us bounce around and fly in the air. i also learned that elephants are crazy and have a lot of attitude. don't be near them when they start going crazy. i have a lot of stories to tell you guys when we get back home. but you'll just have to wait to hear about the crazy elephants.

love,
julian

safari from celia

we just finished the show and left the orphanage. now it's time to take a vacation. we're going on a safari. we will have to stay at 3 different tent camps. we went to lake manyara where there were many monkeys and hippos. the second day we went to the crater. the crater is place where a mountain collapsed in and now it is heaven to the animals. i learned that the elephants have six layers to their teeth and when they are down to their last one they go to the crater to die. we then travelled to tarangire and saw a lot more amazing animals.

be home soon!
love,
celia

safari - from cheyenne

never will i forget the safaris!! the views were incredible and the animals magnificent. the roof went up and we were standing the entire time. the animals were so close to us, it was unreal! i could almost touch them. monkeys, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and elephants...oh my! then we went to the crater. it was so big and there was so much to see, it was magical!! we even saw a cheetah there! then we moved on to tarangire. WOW! the weather was beautiful and the animals came closer. i can't wait to see everyone and tell them my memories. i miss everyone, but we are coming home soon.

love,
cheyenne

safari - from arianna

the safari is one thing that i will remember forever! everywhere we travelled was beautiful in its own special way. seeing the animals so free was the best part! it's much different than seeing them in the zoo. they looked so graceful and free it was unbelieveable. we saw lots of zebras and when the flies land on them, their skin twitches. we decided that they looked like great "poppers!" the most graceful animal would have to be the giraffe. the most interesting animal to watch, though, would have to be the elephant. they're just so smart. and of course, in my opinion would have to be the cheetah! safari was just great over all and the views were to die for!!

i'm sure going to miss this place.

love,
arianna

show day - from celia

we had a wonderful show with the kids from the orphanage. they are really one of a kind. they showed us new ways to drum, sing their songs, and be grateful for what we have. the kids really know how to move. they have a lot of talent. we taught them the animal dance from the "lion king." my group was the tumbili's (monkeys). cheyenne and i were the teachers of this group. they were fast learners. when the show was over, we got to celebrate. they offered us food, but we didn't eat it. instead we decided to let the kids in the show eat it. they really liked it because it was a high class meal. it felt great to show them that we cared and make them a part of the cpsoa family!

love,
celia

SAFARI - from sara

when they mean safari, they meant SAFARI!!! we were on our way to lake manyara, you were surrounded by trees. it was lush. we saw babboons. it was sooo cool to see them in packs and to see the babies holding on to their mothers. all of us were standing in the car. you could see everything from up top. we saw giraffes eating. i believe there was a male and female with their baby with them. they were distant, but we still saw them. they are beautiful and graceful creatures when they walk. we saw blue monkeys as well. man, they are tiny. but their tails are long. we saw some of them fight. the way they talk is so high pitched. it kinda hurts your ears! we saw elephants. they were gi-normous! they were in herds. there were babies as well...oh, sooo cute! we saw skin of an animal, but we didn't know what kind of animal it was. the skeleton was scattered everywhere. the second safari we went to was at the ngorongoro crater. i almost we forgot to mention we got to stand in the land rover to see. we kept bumping into eachother. it was so much fun but i believe we have bruises. the crater was so beautiful as if it was a movie. on the way up to the crater, we saw a lot of trees with a thick layer of fog. we stopped at the top to look down into the crater, and the fog cleared. it made you want to cry it was that beautiful. you could see lakes and trees and grass forever! we saw a lot of zebras, wildebeats, hyeanas, flamingos, and a few lions. the next two days we went to tarangire natl. park. there were herds of elephants anywhere we went. we finally saw 2 full grown lions with manes. the next day we saw a herd of elephants scare 16 lions and cubs out of their hiding. it was like "animal planet."

miss and love you all.
sara

the show - from cheyenne

holy cow! the show was a lot of fun, especially with those kids. even though, yes, it was stressful and hard, but also worth it- big time!! i love the fact that we kept on going, no matter what. yes, we had hard times, i'm not going to lie...but i appreciate that we had a chance to even work with the kids. it was a great success! i did have lessons to learn, but i am recognizing what those were. for sure i know that everyone including the doctors loved it. it was the last day to see the kids, but i will never forget their smiles.

love,
cheyenne
p.s.
almost home - see you all soon.

The Show - From Arianna

what can i say, it was fantastic! i have to admit at first, i was a little uncertain about how the show was going to turn out. but of course, CP pulled it off. when we first got to the orphanage, the kids were all in church. there church was so astounding. they all looked like they were having so much fun! we all wanted to join, but of course, no time. we had to set up all the costumes, props, and have a little dress rehearsal. finally, it was time to give the other kids their costumes. they were so excited. when it came to showtime, i was so nervous. but once it started, i was fine. the kids did a phenomenal job! all the doctors told us how moved they were! after the show we packed up all the costumes and then went outside to talk to the children and doctors. then they called us into a separate room for a reception. but, instead of eating the food they had prepared for us, Mr. Billy came up with a better idea...he decided to get all the kids that were in the show and let THEM eat the food! they were so happy! and then we got sad because it was time to say our "goodbyes." it was so hard. i felt like i've grown so close to them in just those couple of hours we spent together. i know that each and every one of their smiles will always be remembered in my heart. and hopefully, they will always keep us in theirs. i will miss their smiles and never forget them.

love,
ari

Receiving a Gift

What we came here to do in Afrika was to bring joy and love to a community of children who don't have a lot. We accomplished our goal. Sunday was the day of the show. We were all stressing over the fact that we didn't get to rehearse with the children as much as we wanted to on Saturday. But, when we got to the orphanage on Sunday, it all worked out! The Team rehearsed what we were going to do. The kids came into the room and started to warm up their voices while some of us started to set up the Church where we were all going to perform. We got into the dressing room and there was energy in the room. You could tell by the children's faces they were all nervous. We gave them their costumes and they all started to giggle (LOL). But they were all excited. The CPSOA Team performed the first half of the production and the orphanage students joined us for the second half. They did an amazing job! They had an enormous amount of energy. They put out everything they had into the smallest motions. And just like us, you could see them reviewing their choreography to themselves in their heads before going on stage!! It made a difference. They sang as well. The songs we sang together were happy songs and Mr. Billy tried to make them smile, but they were too nervous. When they opened their mouths, you could hear their hearts in the song, full of joy & spirit! The Team learned a song they taught us and we sang it in the show. It felt as if all of us knew eachother from a past life. The Church was packed full of children and adults. The group of doctors were all in tears!

After the show we all had to say goodbye. The little ones were surrounding the Team. They were all smiling! To look at their faces with a huge smile was unreal! To think that we created this amazing event together was astounding!! We all started to go into our cars and we started to drive away. We waived our goodbyes! The drive back to the lodge was a silent drive. We all were thinking. We thought of all the work we had done and to know what we did, not any ordinary kids could accomplish in one week!

To go through Joshua Tree, all the shots, the meetings, the extra hours we put in, led up to this amazing moment! We wouldn't take back any of the pain, cuts, bruises, time because we got a smile from the children who hardly have anything, and THAT is a REMARKABLE FEELING! Afrika gave us a gift in return - a smile from their children!!

Love,
Sara

...time for safari!!

hey all-

things are going great out in africa!! things have been crazy the past few days which explains why we haven't had any time to post new items on the blog. BUT, we did our collaborative performance yesterday and it was INCREDIBLY SUCCESSFUL!!! it was a truly awesome experience and we can't wait to share all the details with you all when we get back!! we will also post pictures after we return cuz the computer situation out here is, well let's just say, "not like ours!" so, please accept our apologies for that.

today we leave for safari for a couple of days so we'll be out of touch. rest assured all are doing well and we can't wait to see all your smiling faces when we return!!

with much love,
cpsoa's team tanzania!!

Thursday, 12/02/09 - from sara

today was an extraordinary day - joyfulness, giving, communicating, and growing up. we did everything today including what we were supposed to do yesterday while we were sick. two days work all in one! visited two schools today. performed for them and gave them all a smile once again. there is so much discipline in the schools. so much respect. maybe we should take in all they do here and take it to practice in the u.s. maybe our schools and generations would not be so in trouble with our lack of acceptance of one another and see eachother as a threat, but as a friend. we did four home visits today!! all of them amazing people. one house was a maasai's house. he had a beautiful family. to be honest, i fear that if i smile they would think i'm making fun of them, which i'm not. i've just come to a point of not worrying about it anymore and will continue to smile for the kids. mr. billy told me to smile and now i understand why!

today i held a baby named sara! she was so precious. she was the fourth born of the family. i tried to make her smile cuz i opened my arms and my heart to her. we had a moment and that moment was remarkable!

we went to the orphanage and taught there. man, did i have fun!! we got there and set up and we had time to mingle...so cheyenne and i did. the girls there are so funny. i really didn't know what to expect, but hey, they are fun gals! soon after, it was time to teach. julian and i got the big girls. we taught the punda (zebra) dance from our "lion king" number. they learned it faster than expected. once the teaching was over, everyone did it. it was really unbelievable to see kids who haven't had any dance training to learn so quickly and to do all the steps so well...me and mr. billy both taught a dance. i could actually say with confidence i did a pretty darn good job!!! at times i couldn't breathe but he you gotta do what you gotta do :-) it was so funny cuz i couldn't hear them say "yes" in swahilli, so i would say "yes" in swahilli and we ended up yelling back and forth to eachother. we all screamed! we came back to the lodge and went swimming for a while and associated with the doctors and nurses. i found out tanzania has a gorgeous gem. one of the doctors bought one. it's a blue stone called tanzanite!!

today we had a team cpsoa tanzania meeting. it was pretty intense. yes, i do have a lot of growing up to do. yes, i have a lot to take responsbility for. i was waiting for this trip to show me what i need to take responsibility in and what i need to do in life. mr. billy told us we have to grow up and be mature. this is the time and day i need to open my eyes and be an adult! i'm bringing back responsibility and maturity back to america!!!

love, sara

p.s. i miss every single one of you! x0x0x0

FROM MARTIN!!!! = )

HEY GUYS...HOW YOU DOIN?? IT SHOULD PROBABLY BE 9:05 OVER THERE BY NOW...WELL ITS FRIDAY OVER HERE AND WE GOT THE DAY OFF!!!! NOT ONLY THAT...WE ALSO GOT MONDAY OFF...HOW POA (COOL) IS THAT??!! I MISS YOU GUYS SOO MUCH!!! GOTS TO WRAP IT UP...I GOTTA RUN SOME ERRANDS.....I'M GONNA GOOOO SHOPPING!!!!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA BYE BYE!!!!

Team Tanzania -

Happy Valentine's Day!

On this day of love and friendship, know that you are loved by
many family and friends who miss you.

You are all amazing!

Elsa (Martin's mom)

To the CP9

Hi everyone,
I am so sorry you all got sick that is a bummer, bless your hearts. It sounds like you are all better now.
I read all of your blogs and they are so moving, they make me sit here and cry. I do my best not to, but of course that doesn't work. We are truly missing all of you. The kids and staff look forward to reading your blogs and responding to them. Your stories of what you are doing each day are amazing, touching and life changing. You all are blessing so many lives there and here.
All is going well. Don't worry about anything just keep up the good work over there. We love and pray for you all daily. With much love, and hugs, Liz (Mrs. Spencer)
P.S. Happy Valentine's Day!!!!!!

MARTIN!!!!

HEY GUYS ITS ME AGAIN...I HEARD YOU GUYS GOT SICK!!!! SORRY TO HEAR THAT...HOPE YOU GUYS ARE FEELING BETTER...HOWS EVERYTHING GOING OVER THERE?? I HOPE YOU GUYS ARE HAVING ALOT OF FUN...OH AND ANOTHER THING...HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!! I KNOW ITS NOT TIME YET BUT I'LL BE AT HOME WHEN IT IS AND MY COMPUTER ISN'T WORKING....UGH... ANYWAYS...I MISS YOU GUYS ALOT...I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU GUYS AGAIN!!! SOOO MANY KIDS ARE WAITING TO SEE WHAT YOU WRITE BACK!!! ITS SOO AMAZING TO KNOW THAT MY BEST FRIENDS ARE CHANGING LIVES IN JUST TWO WEEKS!!! I'M SOO PROUD OF YOU GUYS...WEEL GOTS TO WRAP IT UP...........FOR NOW...LOVE YOU GUYS SOO MUCH AND MISS YOU LOTS...PEACE!!!!

Jackie and Brittney.....

Hey!!! It sounds like you guys are having an amazing time. It's astonishing to hear your about your journeys and adventures.

Mr. Billy-It's inspiring just to be able to say "our teacher took six of our friends to Tanzania,Africa!"

The Mishka. (the soon to be mrs.)-The other ballet teacher is good but we prefer you!

Santo- Even though we don't see you alot we still miss you. And we're thinking of you.

Sara-We miss you sooooo much.

Cheyenne-It's cool to hear about you finding your finding your pen pal.

Arianna- Hey we miss you. and "Debbie from WCHS said hey and she misses you."

Celia-We miss your foward text messages. And Jackie missses your help in algebra. And we miss your crazy hair.!!!!!

Sascha-Yes,me and mario are driving Ashley crazy. We miss you. Bring us back something.

Julian-We miss you talking about Step up 2! And your "single ladies dance"

p.s- this is probable the last time were going to talk to you until next time. So happy valentines day!! And we're all praying for you. Love you!!

wednesday - the cpsoa team tanzania is benched!

today was a crazy day because we all woke up sick (except cheyenne and sascha!). so, dr. shriner told us to stay back at the lodge to rest and sleep it off. she said that it would only last for 24hrs...it ended up that 17 people from the whole team of 34 got sick. even dr. shriner came down with it at the end of the day!! crazy!! any way, after lots of pepto bismal, bananas, ginger ale and toast, we managed to get over it!! more to come....

from arianna

today was just full of excitement!! after we ate breakfast, we went to a school. the teachers were very nice and the kids were all safi (great)! at first we sang mapambano and jambo for the teachers. then they informed us that the kids were also going to perform for us! when they sang, i wanted to start crying. they were amazing! they sang the tanzanian national anthem! the principal told us that we were a blessing and that we we were always welcome there. the kids wee great after we performed. all the kids smiles just warmed my heart because i know that i put that smile there. after we left the school we went to the orphange and performed our show. we received more blessings from god, beacuse it started pouring while we were performing!! when we were done with our show, we taught them some of our songs and they sang terrific!! well i think i can say that today was one day i will never forget!! love, arianna - ps. i miss everyone!

from sascha - we're the blessings from god

when i first got picked for africa, i thought, "why me?" now i know why...because i feel like i have the most to learn from this experience...and i have! today we went to this school and we had all the kids come out and we performed for them...the crazy thing is that we performed outside in the dirt and it started to rain. we did the floor work and everything! it was crazy and fun at the same time. ezekiel, our guide, said that when it rains and you're doing something good, it's gods way of thanking you. and when we finished dancing it stopped raining. how weird is that?!? it was remarkable at our home visits, how magical it was! well, i gotta go, the headmaster (mr. billy) is calling me. ha ha! oh, and mario and brittney - hope you guys aren't driving ashley too crazy! oh and thanks to those for the letters!! love you and miss you A LOT! mom, how are you holding up there? love, sascha

from sara

do you ever have these days that you know things happen for a reason. today was one of those days. we started off a little earlier today to work. we have a meeting, everything is going according to plans, ready to practice and then boom, the stereo blows up! it had to happen today! so, mr. billy asked the drives to take us to stores. and so we did. we go to the stores to buy food and mosquito nets to take to the home visits. and we also found a new boom box that works in tanzania. while mr. billy was shopping, we were waiting in the car. i was looking down the streets looking how they lived. it was remarkable to see men after men working hard, and women caring for their children. the school we visited today was a bit of ways away, but we made it. we had to off-road it! all the watoto came out of there classes to watch us perform. we danced on the dirt. i know, crazy, right? when we finished performing, we started giving the kids high-5's! to see the smiles on their faces was priceless. worth so much more that anything else in the world. we tried to walk away, but the kids started grabbing our hands. then we went to a home visit to see one of the boys that we were going to teach. his family was tremendously gracious, invited us into their home and accepted our gifts of mosquito nets, beans and rice. outside was a group of watoto, their eyes full of sadness. we gave them all toys. it helped put a smile on all their faces! when we taught the kids mapambano and jambo, it was remarkable how they hit the pitch perfectly!! aftwards i met a little msichana(girl) her name was glina. we both put our hands under our chins and started to wave like the little rascals. me and some of the watoto started to dance and play drums. i felt like i was meant to be here. it rained when we performed. blessings were on us and among them. ~ sara

from cheyenne

the love that i have for tanzania grows bigger and bigger each day. i had a pen pal two years ago from the orphanage named erasto lazaro. he had sent me a letter and i kept it these two years. on it he had drawn an ndege (bird). i brought the letter with me hoping to actually meet him. today was that day. after visiting the school and going on house visits, which was a remarkable experience for me, mentally and emotionally, i finally met him. he was 16yrs old and we were both excited and speachless. it was an incredible moment in my life. later on that day we performed mini "malaika" outside in the dirt. it rained and when we hit the ground, dust came up like a smoke machine! they said we made it rain blessings on them. before we left to go back home, i saw my penpal at the orphanage. he had walked from his school to give me 3 paintings that he had created himself. they were amazing and my heart just dropped! i'm going to see him again tomorrow and i absolutely can't wait. i know was the day to recognize the wonders of tanzania!! p.s. love you mom, miss you everyone, but i'm ok and having a great time! ~cheyenne

from julian

today was fun. we were dancing hip-hop at a school - the massai warrior hip dance when it started to rain. it felt like we were in the movie, "step up 2 the streets." we were dancing in the dirt and mud. all of the africans were freaking out. then we went to an orphanage and performed the mini "malaika" show. after that we taught them two songs - "mapambano" and "jambo rafiki." it was surprising how fast they learned. ~ julian

Feb 10th from Celia

Show and Teach
It is februay 10th 2009. we had two more home visits. one was a boy name wilson. he has 5 brothers and sisters. his mother is a massai. his sister puts her head in front of you to rub it. that is how she welcomes you. we went to a school and did the massai warrior dance outside. it started to rain as we bagan dancing. when we stopped dancing the rain stopped. we were told that if it rains when you do something, that the rain is blessings from the gods up above. ~celia

ITS ME MARTIN.....AGAIN...

HEY PEEPS...HOW ARE YOU DOING?? I MISS YOU GUYS SOOOO MUCH!!! SERIOUSLY I CANT STAND ANOTHER MINUTE WITHOUT YOU GUYS HERE.... MR.BILLY: THAT BALLET TEACHER YOU GOT US...IS SOOO AMAZING...SHE IS SOO MUCH FUN!!! MISHKA: CANT WAIT FOR YOU TO COME BACK AND TEACH AGAIN...MISS YOU LOTS!!! CELIA: ANOTHER DAY WITHOUT YOU HERE.....TO HELP ME WITH MY ALGEBRA!!!!!!! I'M JUST KIDDING...BUT STILL...I NEED YOU BACK!!! US EIGHTH GRADERS WANT YOU BACK SOO BADLY!!! I MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!! SASCHA: HEYYA!!! I MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!! I STILL DONT HAVE A HISTORY PARTNER....:[ ARIANNA: I MISS SEEING YOU DANCE YOUR HEART OUT NEXT TO JACKIE...BUT THEN AGAIN... YOUR DOING THAT IN AFRICA!!! CHEYEENE: WHATS UP WITH YOUR TALL SELF?? I MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!! JULIAN: HEY PEPIN THE SHORT!!!!! WHATS UP?? I MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!!! COME BACK!!!! WELL GOTTA GO ITS TIME FOR LUNCH AND YUM!!! I GOT PIZZA...HAHAHAHA

Essence W______

Hey everyone, hows AFRICA, i wish you all were here!
JULIAN, i wish i was over there with you. it's not the same without you. it's sort of quiet and scares me.
CELIA, have a good time and make sure Julian doesnt get eaten! JK
ARIANNA, i hope you will be ok flying back home even though you seem ok
SASCHA, i miss you
CHY, hello
SARA i miss you
luv u all

HEY EVERYONE;
SO COOL TO READ ABOUT EVERYTHING THAT YOU ARE DOING. CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO COME BACK AND SHARE IN PERSON ALL OF THE WAYS THIS IS IMPACTING YOU AND CHANGING YOU FOREVER.
I'M VERY PROUD OF YOU ALL!!
LOVE,
MS. R

Essence W______

hey guys. i heard all about the first things you did, sounds cool!
julian, i miss you little bro and i cant wait 'till u come back
sara, i miss seeing you. is the necklace hurting yet???
sascha , mikaela says yo
chy, i dont know how 2 spell ur name so thats all i got
celia, i miss u alot
arianna, take alot alot of pixs

MISS U ALL=)
ESSENCE

nooooo.
i woke up in the morning and u werent here
thats when i realize u left me with tears ;(
BOOOOO.i miss yaaa.
comee homee promise i wont cry
hahahaaa soo was it raining over there
WOWOW its was hailing over here.
havee funn!!
miss u celia n julian sara n sascha!!
writee backkk.
LOVEE UUU<3
ADREENA(ILY)

Samantha...<33

Hey you guys!!! This is Sam.
How are you guys doing in Africa?
Man that still sound absolutely crazy to me!!

Sara: I have alllllll your rings dont worry!!! How many did you have?:P Just teasing.
Sascha: how are you? I miss you in my class!!
Arianna: I miss you seeing you everyday after school and being able to talk to you!
Celia: How does it feel being in Africa Chicka?
Julian: Whats up short stuff!! Did any of the kids think you were younger then you are cuz of your short-ness? :P
Cheyenne: i heard this was your first time on a plane? haha nah i just read your blog..
Mr. Billy: History class is sooooo weird without you as our teacher!!!
Miss [soon to Mrs.] Mishka: I feel weird walking into ballet and you not teaching.. or any dance class for that matter..
Santo: though we never really saw you at school we still miss you.

We miss you sooooooooooo much over here and cant wait for you all to get back!!!

Love This Alternate
Samantha...<33

ITS MARTINO!!!

HEY GUYS ITS ME MARTIN!!! I HOPE YOU GUYS ARE HAVING A GREAT TIME...I MISS YOU GUYS SOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH...CELIA: I WENT MY FIRST DAY WITHOUT YOU TO HELP ME WITH MY ALGEBRA AND....WELL I NEED YOU BACK ASAP!!!! HAHAHAHA JK I DID PREETY GOOD FOR MY FIRST DAY...BUT STILL MISS YOU LOTS!!!SARA: HI CUZIN!!! HOW YOU DOING?? ITS SOOOO DULL WITHOUT YOU HERE... JACKIE HAS BEEN GIVING ME MY SHOTS AND...WOW SHE IS NOT SOO GOOD AT IT...SHE DOESN'T HAVE THAT NICE TOUCH...HAHAHAHAHA SASCHA: FIRST DAY WITHOUT YOU SEEING YOU WALK IN LATE...YOU KEEP ME WONDERING WHEN YOUR COMING...AND THEN I REMEMBER YOUR IN AFRICA!!!!! HAHAHAHA JULIAN: HEY WHATS UP PEPIN!? HOPE YOUR HAVING LOTS OF FUN...SING YOUR HEART OUT!!! DONT FORGET DANCE!!! CHEYEENE: HEY HOW YOU DOING?? MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!! ARIANNA: HEY WHAT UP?? I MISS YOU SOOOOO MUCH!!! I CAN'T STAND IT ANYMORE...YOU GUYS GOTTA COME HOME!!! MR.BILLY: HOW YOU DOING?? I MISS YOU SOO MUCH!!! I MISS WHEN YOU COME IN AND GIVE BIG LECTURES!!!HAHAHAHAHA JK ( THAT MEANS JUST KIDDING ) BET YOU DIDN'T KNOW THAT...HAHAHAHAHA I'M JUST PLAYING WITH YOU!!! MISHKA: I MISS YOU TEACHING CLASSES!!!! I MISS YOU LOTS!!! JUST A QUICK REMINDER...CHEYENNE!!! DONT TOUCH THE MBWAS!!!!!!!!! HAHAHAHAHA YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU AND I'M JUST PLAYING WITH YOU... WELL GOTTA WRAP IT UP GOTS TO DO SOME ALGEBRA...MISS YOU GUYS SOOO MUCH!!!! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU GUYS AGAIN...WRITE BACK...<3<3<3

It's me again!

Hey guys!I feel like righting in neon green 2day.Anyway...I hope you guys are having an awesome time.I still miss you guyz SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much!I miss hugging you guys and telling you jokes that make absolutely no sense X3 I'm gonna tell you the things I miss most about you...

Mr.Billy-I miss your jokes and teaching us History.You always made it a riot!
Ms.Mishka-I miss you teaching us dance classes.You knew how to make them fun.
Santo-I miss hearing you sing and laugh.I miss your tight hugs too.
Julian-I miss the stupid things we would always tell eachother.And secretly...I thought it was pretty funny when you accidentally punched me in the nose.
Arianna-I miss seeing you being silly and telling jokes to your friends.
Celia-I miss your hugs and how you would make fun of me.
Sara-I miss your joke and funny dancing.
Sorry...but I have to rap this up....It's lunch time now.....SAYONARA!!!

TIFFANY

Hey guys...........
Every one over here misses all of you......
The shcool is not complete without you guys
Its been really fun over here
All of our new teacher are fun and funny..... but there not better then mr. Billy amd miss. mishka
Today was very easy... we had nothing but test and quizes
Its sooo weird to no that you guys are in AFRICA
I miss Sashcas jokes, Celias creative mind,Saras ocean hair,Julians laugh, and Ariannas starcasum.............
Everyone at CPSOA is waiting for you guys soooooooo have a awsome time and make it last. Oh and make sure chey has her neckles on.........=]

P.S...... I MISS AND LOVE YOU YANNY

brittney b.

hey team tanzania !!!
we all miss you SOOOOOOOOO much !!!
it sounds like you are having an amazing time....
it should be you guys wishing us luck here instead of us wishing you guys luck there because i know you all can do it and are doing a FIERCE job at it !!!

mr. billy : i miss your wacky ways
ms. mishka : i miss you teaching our dance classes..
santo: even though we dont see you that much i still miss you..
sascha: i miss you bestie.. sounds like your having a good time...
sara: uhh.. who am i supposed to talk to ...i miss you
celia: i miss all the long talks and hugs...i know u will come back safe..
cheyenne: i miss teasing you and calling you excess fat !!!
ari: i miss going to the movies with you every friday..im not going to go until you get back !!!
julian : even though we aren't best friends i miss you and your shortness !!!

mr. rugh said hi ....

and write back !!!!

love,
BRITTNEY..


p.s. oh yeah were learning spanish now.. !!!

From tina

Hey guys!!!!
i miss you all so much! it sounds so amazing what you all are doing there. hey sara, do they have clouds? lol. hope to hear more from you soon!
-tina

from sascha

where should i start...as you all know i'm working with aids orpans. they amaze me in so many ways. in just one day i feel like a new person already. they are so inspiring. they taught me that one small thing can make a huge difference. we sang and danced for them in their schools and homes. i wanted to cry so bad! literally, my eyes were tearing. good thing acting came in handy and i held it in. well, i'm going to wrap it up for now. miss my friends and family and the rest of the crew. hope cpsoa kids are hanging in there without us. we'll be back before you know it. love, sascha!

from celia

hey, hey, hey!
as you know i'm in africa. today we went to two schools - shule! and two homes. as the other kids said, we met a young massai man named johannes. he cooks for his family and goes to school. and when he grows up he wants to be a chef. in the second home, we visited a woman who had fallen off a garden hill and hurt her back so she cannot use her legs. she had a son by the name yosef who also goes to the orphanage and is 15 yrs old. his story moved us as we sang for his bedridden mother. we left her a malaika angel from our toy bag. the schools we went to were crowded with children. i wish we could find ways to make a change for them. love, celia

from arianna

day 2 was so heartwarming! at the orphanage we met a lot of watoto! when we sang it made them all smile. and for me to know that i put that smile on their faces was amazing! we also went to the home of a massai warrior with HIV/aids - he had 3 sons and 2 daughters, but he is too ill to provide for them. now his 16 yr old is in charge of the family. this inspired me and taught me to be grateful for what i have. the massai family lived in a little round house made of wood, mud and leaves. the house was falling apart and they cannot afford to repair it. and just so you CP students know, the kids loved the toys we saved to give them!! missing everyone and can't wait to see you. ~ ari

from cheyenne

today was the first working day and it was unforgettable. we walked through the orphanage and the kids were happy to see us. we met many of the older kids and sang for them. they were so excited and happy! it just put a smile on my face. after that we went to some home visits and heard some amazing stories that were inspiring and touched me. love, cheyenne - p.s. i love and miss you mom!

from sara

today i opened my eyes and my heart to tanzania. today was a day with a lot of thanksgiving and thinking. when i woke up today, i thought i was going to just say hi to children. i was asbsolutely wrong. the watoto looked at me as if i was someone famous! we walked the halls of some of the schools of arusha. we introduced ourselves to some of the boards and teachers of the schools. then we introduced ourselves and our talent to the kids. the smiles on their faces were remarkable. i have never felt so uplifted in my life! we also went to visit some of their homes. this is where my heart opened. the first home was in a massai warrior village. i saw the most beautiful kids. i asked one of them their names and he said it was sani. he was the baby of the family. his 16 yr. old brother takes care of him and their family. his mother has died of aids and his father is very ill as well. i look up to him in so many ways! it's heartwarming to know a 16 yr old would take up the respsonsibility for his family. today is a day i will never forget and cherish. i miss you all! you're in my thoughts always. ~ sara

from JULIAN

Hello Everybody-

today is our first day of working. i started out with a delicious omlette and potatoes. today we went to two schools and an orphanage. we would wave to the kids and they were so happy! they were especially happy when we gave them the McDonalds toys. we danced and sang. we also visited two homes and when we heard about their struggles it almost made want to cry. but i kept it in! today was really fun! later, julian!

Team Tanzania

Hey Team - Billy, Mishka, Santo, Arianna, Cheyanne, Sara, Celia, Julian and Sasha. Glad to hear you made it to Africa safe and sound! You are now ambassadors of peace, hope, and joy to all the children. This trip will be life-changing for all of you and the children will never forget you. Keep your hopes high and joy in your hearts. All of us are keeping TEAM TANZANIA in our thoughts and prayers. Be safe, stay well, and take care.

Elsa (Martin's mom)

MaRiO !!!!!!! =)

HEY HEY HOW ARR U GUYS. I HOPE U GUYS ARE HAVING LOTTS OF FUN ITS SUPER HARD NOT SEEING U GUYS HERE I MISS U PEOPLE HAHA...... WELL BE CAREFUL..WORK IT... HAVE FUN IN THE HEAT ITS FREEZING COLD OVER HERE =) OKAY WELL I GOT TOO GO SEE YA =)

tina and ashley=)

hey guys its ashley
how r u guys doing?its sooooo werid not having u guys here..celia i miss u asking me for my calender..julian i miss ur funny laugh lol...sara i miss asking u history questions haha..
Sasch i miss u a lot i miss runing up to u its soo werid!!!chey i miss u making us laugh in the car...ari i miss you sitting next to me in dance class=)))

hey guys its tina,
i miss you guys so much its not even funny!!! it doesn't feel the same without you all. do you miss us too?? cuz that would be sad if you didnt lol...jk. how is it over there in africa? i bet it's gorgous! tell us all abt it when you get back! you are missed...and its only the first school day without you. =[ it's raining like crazy over here...you would love it sara!=]

well its time for arts classes hope u write back!!...ps yeshu says hi! lol

To the CP9!!!!!

Dear CP9,

We truly miss all of you here! Hope you are enjoying every minute of your wonderful experience! Hope you all are writing down your experiences each day. I am sure it is amazing there. Remember to show a lot of love and compassion to each and everyone you meet. All of us here are so proud of our CP9. We hope you soak up everything. This is an experience of a life time. Take lots of pictures, remember to get yourselves in the pictures with those you meet also. We have been thinking of all of you alot. Our love, prayers and thoughts are with you. We are looking forward to all of you returning with many stories and experiences. Take care and know we love all of you and are thinking of you.
love, Liz (Mrs. Spencer)

Sorry....From Jackie.

So the hey hey hey thing was totally an accident. haha. Well I just wanted to say I hope you guys are having a wonderful time over in Africa!! How's the weather over there.? Let me know if anyone has got bit by a mosquito. Cause I did...and i'm not even in Africa!. I mis you guys tremendously. It's weird not having you guys here. Well I have someting to say to all of you guys. Umm...Celia:Dude, COME BACK!! I misss you!! =[[ Now there's only 4 eight graders. Without you it's incomplete. And yes I'm helping Martin with algebra. Surprisingly it's getting easier. Sara: I miss you telling me that you have to fart. shhh.....And I miss you calling me SHORTIE!!!! Ari: I miss my kisses. I also miss you sitting next to me in dance class. Cheyenne: I miss your tall self. I think I grew. hehe. Sascha: I need you to come back cause you need to make me laugh. No one is making me laugh like you do. Julian: Where are you.?? I need you shortself around here...cause everyone else is taller than me. And i just miss you period. Mr.Billy: It's weird cause I do miss you picking on me. I think that's very weird actually. Ms. Mishka: I'm gonna miss your dance classes. Ecspecially ballet and jazz 2!! (Mr. Billy jazz 3) Santo: I miss your smiley face around the school every once in a while. Well love you all!! Miss you all too!!! <333. P.S. Brittney and Tina say hi. Ohhhh.....and Write back!! =]]]]

I MISS YOU GUYS!!!!!!

Hey guys!How are you doing?I miss you so much!I have been thinking about you guys all weekend.Remember to tell them about our school!=3 I feel like I'm about to cry right now.I know it will only be for 2 weeks,but that's way to long for me.Most of my friends know that I'm impatient most of the time X3.Especially you Julian!You definately know that little flaw in my attitude.(I don't know if that made any sense whatsoever)Anyway...I love you guys so much!Spread the love around Tanzania for me!Atleast try please...it isn't that hard.Thankz 4 all your hard work!!!!!!!!!!Sankyu!☺<3

-Emily(Emzy2)<3

From Tina

hey guys!
Hope you all are having a great time in Tanzania! I miss you all very much and hope you guys have a safe trip. School's been.....different without you. Without Mr. Billy, there's no one to teach a fun history class and without Ms. Mishka, no one to say corrections for us to point our feet and suck it in lol. Sascha, Julian, and Celia, class is different. We don't have your desks out so we sit next to different people, and David's in the last row by himself lol. Sara, i miss you alot and it's weird cuz there's no one to distract us and make faces to during class =] but i still get my work done chill. Cheyenne and Arianna, I'm so used to you both sneaking in during a dance class and it's weird not seeing that. Santo, i miss your positive attitude whenever you're around. Ok, so i miss you guys alot. I can go on and on but unfortunately i can't cuz i have to get back to work! lol hope to see you soon, i miss you guys alot and love you all!
- Tina

from:adreena

hey guys hows Africa!!
miss you all hope you guys have fun.
how is it so far?is it beautiful?
hahahaha curious me.hope you guys make friends.
just miss u all soo much.Wish u were here at school.
LOVEE UU GUYYSS.COMEE HOMEEE.
With Love<3,
adreena<3:)

from david

Hey guys wasup i hope ur having fun.Well I know I dont know you guys tat well but still I have come to love all of you. Well um hows it out there is it realy hot out there so have you you made any new friends. I hope you guys get to help alot of people and realy get a good lesson out of this and stuf so yeah well goodbye talk to you later GOODBYE!!! HAVE FUN !!!
P.S. dont get eaten by anything ok

From Melissa :)

Hey guys,
hope your having a good time!!!! I miss you all so much, last night i was thinking... whats Creative Planet going to be like without you guys here... well in finding it out now, BORING... I hope you guys are helping so many people and are staying safe. I hear that were 11 hours ahead or before you or something like that and i can only imagine how far away you are from Baldwin Park. Take lots of picuters, i want to know EVERYTHING!!!! I cant wait to hear from you guys again and remember to HAVE FUN!!!!

Peace and Love,
Melissa

From Essence

Hey guys. How is it like out in AFRICA? I miss all of you guys so much. Come home soon. It has only been one day and it seems like FOREVER, but you guys are gone for a good cause. I can't wait to see all of you. Take lots of pics and don't let Julian get eaten by a wild animal.
I LUV U ALL!!!!!!!:)
Essence

brittney b.

hey team tanzania !!!!!
i hope you guys are having an amazing time..
its so weird without all your friendly faces around..
well its raining and storming over here and its daytime..so i guess it night over there...
anyways, i hope you guys be safe and fierce.
you guys are truly an inspiration to creative planet...
go on and shine a ray of hope on the wonderful children in tanzania...

write back !!!!...

p.s. .. . .. . . bring us back some stuff !!!

love,
brittney

From Jackie!!!

Hey Hey Hey!!!

Come Home!

Hi Guys! Mrs. Paredes here! Ive been thinking about you guys all weekend trying to figure out what time it is and where you're at! Im having fun Mishka even though I haven't actually started (haha). Sara I wanted to text you to see if you were there but I forgot you dont have a phone. Boo to that! (hehe) I hope you all are soaking up the experience. Enjoy it because you have no idea what a once in a lifetime chance you've been given. Bring me home a rock! Bella loves rocks. Don't worry Mr. Billy I'll crack down on the arts classes and make sure they're all on their best behavior (wha-psh). Miss ya'll Mucho!

Asante sana squash banana!!!! =0)

Love Ya!
Mrs. Paradise

Hey guys!!!!!

Hey guys whats up?? Its martin/The President. I know your not there yet.....Any of you guys get plane crazy?? I know i would...hahahahaha Man I miss you guys soo much and your not even there yet...!!! I wish i could be there with you guys enjoying a lifetime experience. It's soo different over here...sheeeeesh it's soo quiet!!! I LOVE IT!!! hahahahahaha jk...Sara: It was soo funny Monday because my grandpa almost went to go pick you up....He laughed soo hard...Celia: ok lets see whats going to happen in algebra without you here...I'm so nervous!!!Sascha: I have no history partner without you here...:[ Julian: Hey whats up Pepin the short!!! How you been??Arianna: Hey i never seen you cry soo much on Friday!!! well remember your in my prayers...Cheyenne: Yo Yo Yo!!!! How is it over there??Mr.billy and Mishka: How is it over there?? i miss you guys soooo much!!!

Sincerely,
Martin/ the president!!! <3

from the CP3

So, we made it! Almost 30hrs of travelling and then we stepped of the amazing plane onto the tarmack of Kilimanjaro Airport! WOW!! It was very balmy - Africa pulled out a most warmest of welcomes for our Team Tanzania! We had the easiest cutsoms we've ever encountered, thanks to the assistance of Dr. Solomon, one of the local doctors who's been a friend of the Phil Simon Clinic for many years. The ride to the hotel was very enjoyable...we had to sing for the driver and tour guide and they were very impressed with our swahili! The lodge is dreamy...right "Out of Africa!" We all slept like logs and enjoyed a delicious breakfast!!! Now we're off to our first day of work with the schools, orphanges and home visits...more to report tomorrow! We're very proud of the team! They've doing great!! Hugs to all ~ the CP3

From Julian

I'm having a great time! The plane rides were poa (cool!)! They had tv's on the backs of the seats with our own remote controls! The Amsterdam airport was amazing. It looked like a mall, with a museum and a meditation room. But the McDonalds tasted kinda weird. When we got to Africa, I was so excited! It is beautiful and looks like a jungle. See you guys soon! Love, Julian!

From Celia

We're here in Africa. I saw a snake and lizard, but nothing bad happened. The hotel is amazing! Don't worry, I am safe. We're all safe and enjoying the trip. On the plane ride over, we stopped in Minnesota and Amsterdam. We got to watch movies and play games. We're here doing our work and missing you all. ~Love, Celia

From Sascha

This one goes out to my family. Grandma I miss you alot and love you...Mom, I don't know where to start. The plane rides were long, but not so bad. It was even kinda fun. We're at the hotel now and I'm eating breakfast. You're probably getting ready for bed right now. I hope you're not having too much fun without me. When I look out the window of my room, all I see is a beautiful jungle. You have no idea how beautiful it is. Well, got to go, the orphans are calling me. Love you all and miss you lots!! ~Sascha

From Arianna

Okay, now, where should I start...My first time on a plane was amazing! I would look out the window and the clouds looked so beautiful, they seemed fake. At first I was scared on the plane, but after a while, I got used to it. When we first stepped off the plane, it finally hit me. I'm in Africa! On the way to the hotel, it was very dark, but the air was so clean and fresh. I miss everyone and can't wait to see you. Love you Mom, Dad, Aurthur and Anthony! x0x0x Arianna

From Sara

OMG!! What is there not to say about this amazing place!!! Right when we got off the plane you could smell the air and know that you are in Africa! It took forever to get our bags but hey, it was an adventure. I already miss my phone, getting calls from y best friend, texts saying "good morning", but the birds totally took the place of that! HAHA! Our view is beautiful. The rooms look exactly like the internet. We were excited to see the wilma (mountains) but the fog made it look like a movie. Miss you everyone. Love, Mom, Sis, best friends. Love Sara!

Cheyenne's First Flight!

WOW!! The trip so far is amazing! I was really nervous at first but after the first flight to Minneapolis, I felt like I was already in Africa. Looking out that window just made me want to cry because it felt so unrealistic. And once I stepped off that plane, even though it was dark, I saw Africa's beauties and I was so excited! Everyone was screaming. I couldn't believe that I was there. The drive to the hotel was great. I saw the trees, took one breath in and that to me was a beautiful moment! The hotel is great and the rooms are beautiful!

~Cheyenne
p.s. -I love you MOM!

Hey TeaM TaNZaNiia!!!

Hi team!!!!
How are you all? I know I know your not even there yet!!!:D
I just wanted you to know that all of us alternates are already missing you!!
Bring me back a bracelet guys, so i can say "....Oh ya and this is when my friend went to Tanzania, AFRICA!!!" that would be sooo kool if i could say that!!!
I miss you guys... I want be able to have a conversation with you..
School is guna be WAYY different without you.. Ya so its 12:55 and its only been, about, seven hours since you left? and already i want you guys here!!

Please you guys be happy, SMILE, live, inspire, and show them all what Creative Planet kids can do!!!:]
[[.I know you can.]]

Just saying HiI'll be watching for new posts this next two weeks so wirte!!!

Love this fierce Alternate
Samantha..<33

WOW ITS FINALLY TIME!!!

Wat supp people Sascha speaking,

First thing I want to say is thanks mom, you have dealt with all my crap and helped me through the good, the bad, and the ugly!!! Just wanted to say thanks...ALOT!!!
The second person I want to say thanks to is Mr.Billy...if it weren't for you believing in me I wouldn't be going and I just wanted to use some space in this blog to say thanks!!! Third I want to thank the doctors for letting us go! They are amazing and I am glad to go with them!! Save the best for last is.....CPOSA.... THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR GUY'S SUPPORT AND MAKING THIS HAPPEN!! oh and try not to miss me too much... i'll be back before you know it.... ( hopefully)!!!!! Just a pointer ,I will not be the same Sascha you know ..... I will be like a catapillar bursting into a butterfly!! haha...Gonna miss everyone....love you guys!!!

Love ya lots , SAscHA <3

On my way

Hey everybody!!!!! It's Sara. Man I can't believe the time is already here!!! I feel like a super hero about to change the world !!! Well I just want to say thank you to everybody who has helped us out with this unbelievable trip!!! Thank you mom for always being here for me in the good times and bad times. Thank you Isabel and Poppy for being the big bro and sis that anyone else could ever have. CPSOA kids, I'm going to miss our conversations but imagine what we will talk about when I come back!! And everyone at the school, thanks for being there for me and the team, for helping us out in anyway possible; the car wash, the yard sale, and the show. I truly believe it was in God's plan for me to go on this trip to teach others what the big Mr. Billy and Mishka taught us; and to share my talents with others. Thank you oh so much!!!

Love,
Sara V.

celia's goodbye note to everyone out there

hey hey hey!! Celia here. Students from CPSOA whatever you do, do not make the teachers complain about their kichwas(heads). MARTIN, I know you will miss me being there when you need help in your algebra ,but you still have Jackie. JACKIE, help Martin. I want to thank all the doctors who believed in us and all the parents and students of CPSOA who helped make this possible. Mama, I know I'm your oldest daughter and you count on me a lot; but you still have Belicia and Chris. Everyone, don't miss me too much. You will see me again. There's no need to worry. I will miss you all and I just want to let you know that you all have a place in my heart. Team Tanzania will represent CPSOA thoughout the whole time we're there.

TUTAONANA(GOODBYE).

LOVE,
celia

Julian's Farewell

Hey everyone... first to my familia... I'll miss you alot, but I'll be fine... ni sawa... can't wait to see a twiga (girrafe)... we get on the plane in 20 more hours... then I'll start my 30 hour nap around the world... to CPSOA... have fun and try to miss me a little... don't drive Mrs. Rugh or the subs crazy... Mercedes, don't cry, I'll be back... I wish all of you could go with us... we'd definitley sing a lot better with you all along... but, I'll bring you back a little somethin-somethin if I can... Mr. Billy, can we go shopping??? I'll miss you all and promise to represent CPSOA on the continent of Africa... thanks for all your help in making this happen...

Julian (kima) Hinojosa

Peace Out...

Habari...

Hey, ya all... this is the alternates from Creative Planet (Sam, Jackie, and Tiffany)... don't forget Martin... unofficial alternate... we just wanted to wish you all a safe and fun trip... make sure you bring Jackie back a Punda.... we'll miss you while you are gone... but, we'll keep CPSOA up and running... GO TEAM TANZANIA!!!!! Martin says "Mr. Billy, make sure you practice that drumming on the plane..." 1-2 and 3 & 4.... Cheyenne don't touch the mbwa... have fun, change lives, and make a difference... Sascha, don't forget to smile... :-) remember the minds to create, the hands to build, and the voices to be heard... Poa... don't miss the eropleni...

Team Tanzania Alternate
Kwaheri

The official Team!!

The official Creative Planet School of the Arts Team Tanzania: Sara Varela, Cheyenne Reynosa, Arianna Sanchez, Sascha Rios, Celia Rodriguez, Julian Hinojosa - Alternates - Jackie Chavez, Tiffany Reynosa, Samantha Torres.

5 days to go!!

We're almost there...some last minute packing and items to purchase for our trip!! The team is honored and excited to embark on this trip of a lifetime!! ~santo