Dear brandy,

My residents very much enjoyed hearing about your students, as well as seeing them. The commented on how precious they are. They were just as shocked with the situations these children deal with everyday. The commented on how many things we, living in Canada, just take for granted (like toilet paper) and that our winters may be 40 below but we at least have the luxury or affordable heated homes.

When I read about your trip to Cape Point, they were amazed you were able to do all the climbing, they would have been scared! On lady said her legs would have given out.

Again a few questions, from that one resident who asks most of them. Lol She would like to know, how big South Africa is, how many schools there are there and where the teachers get their training.

I have a resident, her name is Margaret, and she said to me, “I just can’t get it out of my head about when you read she paid for that trip with no help.” She was in tears talking to me about how impressed she was and how brave you are and such a good hearted person to be doing this. She got some money for her birthday that day and she said to me that she wanted to send it to you to help a bit. She asked me to ask you how she could do this. So if you could let me know for her, I know she would be very happy.

We are all so captivated by your journey and all your experiences. And I personally am so proud to know you, and to be able to come in a room and announce that you are MY cousin.

As always we look forward to hearing more about your time there.

All the best from Golden West,

And love, Erin.

P.S Did you get the picture of the residents?