Getting Acquainted

Today was about getting acquainted, coming together as a team and focusing on specific goals. 

It began with our bus journey to Beja – our home away from home for the next two weeks.  During our travels we witnessed the natural beauty of the Alentejo Region of Portugal – endless fields of cork and olive trees, vineyards and nesting storks.

After checking into the Residencial Bejense, we gathered for orientation.  Brief introductions proved this was quite a diverse group, but with one common thread – to share and to serve.

Our meeting ended with a visit by Paula Lunca and her son Jose.  Paula welcomed the group and briefly reviewed the history of Global Volunteers in Beja.  She answered questions about the various schools, schedules and what to expect during the next two weeks.

Dinner at the Tem Avondo Restaurant, a favorite among previous teams, was welcomed by all.  We were treated to a feast of traditional foods, vino and wonderful desserts.

My intuition tells me that we will accomplish much during the next two weeks and be richer for it.