Today was my host sister's daughter Nothabo's 8th birthday. Over the past year I have become an Aunt to Nothabo, as this is what she calls me (as well as Sthe, my Zulu name). It's very strange to me to feel like a mother on a regular basis. However, I must say I do make a kick ass Aunt. I do this by pretty much mimicking my mom's amazing mom qualities, by crafting with her and Sindiswa (her good friend who she lives with during the school week and who lives with us on weekends) and doing fun non-TV related activities. Anyways, we made a big deal out of her birthday. I say that it was a "big deal" because the majority of kids here don't have the luxury of celebrating their birthdays due to obvious circumstances. We threw a party and had a great time. The party was definitely not comparable to American standards (in excess, length and gifts, etc.), but great nonetheless. Even better I think. This party will probably haunt my children forever, as I will always refer to it when they are being whiny Americans (like I was/am):::"well when I was in Africa the children didn't expect anything for their birthdays and just enjoyed the little things", etc. etc. I already pity them.
Pictures from the party below.
Nothabo and me
Birthday cake that I made for Nothabo. Barbie themes are apparently universally popular...
My family (L to R): Sme, Me, Mbali, Sindiswa, Nozipho, Bonakele, Mama Hadebe. In front Thobeka and Nothabo. I work with Bona and Mbali at work but they are very close friends. Thobeka is Mbali's daughter.
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