Riv Life... Come :) and Gone :(

So, yes... I know it's been over a month since my last post. And that's precisely how much fun I've been having- too much to sit at my lap top and regurgitate it all.
So let's rewind and start with my Riv Life experience...

The Riv Life team consisted of four girls, including myself.
For about a month we spent Mondays through Thursdays at this organization mostly working with kids ages 4 to 14. These kids would show up after school to play games, make art, and eat a meal before going home. Tuesday and Thursday mornings were spent at an HIV support group. We learned SO much, took a few very needed naps, cried a bit, and met the most amazing people alive.

These kids come to Riv Life after school to spend time/love on us. :) We are so lucky. This particular day was spent sidewalk chalking, face painting, and paper painting.

We had lots of fun :)

Someone got into the face paint... we had to guard it with our lives.
70 kids to 4 adults is totally a manageable ratio.. sure.

The following photos are from the HIV positive support group we got to hang out with on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These women have created a successful business within their community- making dresses, skirts, aprons, jewelry, pillows, etc... It's amazing to experience the way their faith and dependence on each other plays such an integral role in the motivation to work and be productive. Probably one of the most beautiful things I have ever gotten to be a part of.

We mapped out each members individual strengths and stood back in awe at how much talent this group possesses.

She made things fun :)

Beading a cell phone carrier

We love our flexi flans!

Rebekah getting measured for a dress

Fabric for our dresses/skirts... we were sooo excited!

Lynn is the social worker from Riv Life who came with us to the meetings.
She's having a little baby soon. :)

Attack of the flexi flans.. I had nightmares about these things.

We did an exercise reflecting on personal goals.

Maduma helped me draw my personal goals. :)

It was all business.

Princess and Thande were my buds :)

We had a dance party one afternoon and were all a little shocked/horrified at the moves these kids busted out.

We had a dance party one afternoon and were all a little shocked/horrified at the moves these kids busted out.

Nani was my dance partner

We asked the kids to paint their houses, and used them to brighten up the play room.

Tire swings are way fun.