Donkey valet service, May 9

Yesterday we again split into two groups and headed to communities north of Ocoa. We climbed higher and higher into the mountains and as we did so, we gradually saw the forest and landscape become greener and greener. 

Instead of dry rivers and wilting crops, we began to see a richness in the land that is more typical of the island in normal rain conditions. We even saw a rushing river, a small waterfall and cows that looked well fed and round - no bones sticking out. 

The group I went with went to the village of Mahoma (pronounced mayoma). As we arrived, we saw a line of donkeys and horses tethered nearly in a row. Eric (you know, the guy with the abs of steel - or at least that's what he nicknames himself) promptly said "Look, a donkey valet service!"  Yet another of his quips we are constantly subjected to!

The neat line of animals was a great indicator of the attitude and behaviour of the people we met there....generally kind, funny, patient and friendly. The food we ate at lunchtime was great with stewed chicken, rice and beans and two types of fresh salad. 

After a wonderful day we headed back down to the dry conditions in and around Ocoa.

We are all getting tired, but are still enjoying our time here. The students of CVCEC have been great - true ambassadors of home!!! I am so impressed and proud of all of them!