We have all arrived safely in Ghana. Four of us (Kelly, Ann, Ned, and I) landed at 6 a.m.yesterday and, after a lengthy nap, explored the capital of Accra. Our first mission was to pick up mosquito nets from Yvonne, a local supplier, and to get familiar with the local currency as well as how to cross busy streets. Peter, our driver, took us out for a fun chicken lunch. Later, we walked through a large open-air art market, looking at jewelry, masks, drums, and beautifully designed textiles, haggling about prices along the way and finally arriving at the ocean front.

The rest of the team arrived at 10 p.m. last night, weary and ready for bed.

This morning, we had our orientation with Habitat affiliate guides Naomi and Nadia and then began the long van ride from Accra to Kumasi. After about five bumpy hours we arrived at the Beauty Queen Hotel, had lunch, and set out to the village of Kyekyewere. We met the village chief and elders, presenting them with Schnapps and drinking rather strong gin before we walked around the village with the local children. We will be working on three homes while we are here. Needless to say, the children are beautiful and affectionate and love to have their pictures taken. Pictures tomorrow...hopefully!