Cape Verde, Calheta de São Miguel (the afternoon of the first day) - the 29th of October 2011

Soon after having handed out the presents to the "Softball girls" I headed to Cutelo Miranda to distribute some more presents.

Leidina was the first of the Landim family members to get her presents, being the smallest.

Leidina wearing the new outfit sent to her by her "godmother" Carla Oliveira (right) and the one I bought for her Christmas (right).

Elias wearing the new T-shirt and tenis shoes sent to him by his "godmother" Gabriela, as well as the activity book she also sent him (right) and the new T-shirt I bought for his Christmas (right).

Nate, their mother with the embroidered blouse I bought for her Christmas.

This family of nine members should get all the help one can provide them with, because not only are they hardworking parents but have also managed to have four of their children at the ADEC Academy (Elias at the football group, Leinira and Lou at the "softball" group and Cesaltina at the "running group of girls") not to mention one daughter (Elizabeth) at  the University of Law in Assomada and another one (Angela) who has finished her High School grades and will hopefully get into University with a scholarship next year.

Their efforts have paid off, because all the children are good students, this being the reason why thanks to one of the Santander Bank agencies in Lisbon and a colleague of mine at work (Felizardo), the eldest were given one computer each, so that they may further continue their studies, particularly Elizabeth, who has been struggling with not having to submit her Law working papers in handwriting.

Both girls were extactic, as they were not expecting any of this, but we all trust they will make good use of them and not only make their parents further proud of their academical achievements, but also the ones who have trusted their capabilities.

Cesaltina was given a blouse and a pair of embroidered silk trousers tried out by her elder sister.

Next door  to the Landim's lives Jessica, whose little brother was given an outfit and some toys Maria João had sent for him some time ago and which had been kept at Sibylles's.

Wearing the new outfit and holding the toys.

It was little Aniza's turn on the way back to the ADEC Academy. Celeste, like always, bought her a few things and whilst it was rather difficult to have her put aside the toys she was given last time, in oder to try out the dresses, it all went smoth this time. She seems to have realised that nobody is going to take her toys away from her once she is given them.

Aniza wearing the two new dresses and sandals  and holding the new soft toys.

As I was leaving Marline came out and showed me the little piece of ceramics I had given her last February and which she painted amazingly well. I felt extremely proud of the way she did it and couldn't help but photograph her with it. She would be joining me the following day with 7 more girls whose artistic skills are really worth noting.

Marline holding the ceramics she painted herself.

(to be continued)