The Biggining

Dumelang (hello everyone)!
I was unable to update my blog until now so I have two updates.  This entry is from 9/4.
So far things have been superb.  The weather is beautiful- I haven't seen a cloud in the sky yet.  It gets pretty chilly when the sun is not up, though.  We have been staying outside of Johannesburg at a place called St. Benedict's, which is absolutely adorable.  We all fee pampered right now because we each have our own room and we can sit out on the lawn and garden during the day.  The women running the place like to feed us a lot, too.  We have tea time (which include a biscuit or some form of treat) inbetween 3 very large meals.  One woman said, "You are too skinny.  I need to feed you lots so you are fat like me!"  Words cannot really describe the cuteness of the place.  The buildings are all kind of open, so we get fresh air all the time.  The people here are friendly, too.
The group is getting along famously.  I really like them and am excited to keep getting to know each and every one of them.
We have also been meeting with our host families each day to learn about culture, learn and practice South African songs, strengthen our Sesotho, and to build relationships.  All the South Africans I have met are very friendly and kind.  They get really excited when I practe Sesotho, too, so that's encouraging.  I'm really enjoying learning and growing with everyone.  I feel at peace and happy right now.  Nothing like good company and beautiful weather!  I'm very much looking forward to moving into my host mom's place to truly start experiencing culure and learning even more!
Here's a funny story that I encountered:  Our group was walking around the neighborhood when we saw a bunch of kids behind a brick wall peeing.  They were preschool age.  We just assumed it was part of the culture.  Then, the teacher came around the corner and saw all of them squating and peeing and she yelled out in shock.  We couldn't help but laugh.