Fete-ing it up

It seems to be the season for fetes (parties), here in Cote d'Ivoire! I love it! The first, we had a fete at Centre Providence this past thursday. This first photo is of Devine and I. This girl is hilarious. I think she should do stand-up.

Odrian and Sarah, dancin' it up! The dj had the music pumping, and those girls love to dance!

Francios, Aisha, and Sarah

Elliane and I.

An aerobics routine some of the girls prepared.

We had a party for the kids from Djamborou and Belleville churches at Ecole Baptiste. Lots of games, dancing, singing, and eating. We easily had close to 200 kids, it was great!

Here's a sponge throw game I made for the kids. They got a kick out of it.

Grace and I. She's Chazz and Devin's little sister, from Belleville

Rod carted the little guys around in a trailor hooked to a four-wheeler. Great.

Finally, June 1st was my birthday. I wasn't expecting much. Ivorians don't make a big deal about birthdays like we do. My sister washed my clothes for me, and I considered that my gift. But then, my whole team came in Bouake! They hopped on a bus from Korhogo and showed up at the ice cream shop where we were meeting for an afternoon snack. It was the perfect surprise! THEN, they prepared a costume dinner party for me! Talk about the best birthday ever.

Chazz and I

birthday candles

the bunch!

And a traditional jumping shot

Still more fetes go come! Tonight, I'm celebrating my little brother, Emmanuel's birthday! He's 8. I made a cake, which is super special for Ivorians, since most don't have ovens. We're gonna dance lots! And my host mom told me she's making popcorn, bisap, and spaghetti - all special treats here in CI. As always, thanks for reading! Hope you enjoy the photos!