Livelihood showcase Day

On Saturday Nov 2, the Stake Relief Society had a day where all the wards showcased different ways to earn a little more livelihood.  It was an interesting day -- and way outside of my comfort zone with a different culture's way of doing things. Interesting and fascinating to watch sisters go through so MUCH time, and effort, and money to showcase their work. 

There was the vegetable and farmer table with pots of herbs growing. Our table sat next to them with all kinds of jewelry and beaded flip-flops, headband, and bags. Then was the cloth table. Napkins, runners, tie-dyed and repurposed items like the top of jeans cut off with a cotton skirt. They had dresses and all kinds of things made out of cloth. There was soapmaking, home decorating, party supplies, and another table of food items. 

They had music with an MC and a slow start to the day though it went on until at least 2 pm and I know some participants didn't leave until after 4 pm. 

I helped set up and then left and said to call me if they needed me. Comfort called and back I went to see how I could help. 

Ah, yeah.....she wanted me to stand with her and some other presidencies in the middle of the cultural hall and then go about from table to table to ohhh and ahhh over everyone's work. Then we got pictures taken when they gave out certificates. There were microphones and people in the spotlight. None of which is my comfort zone. I think Teemaree would have been just fine. 

When it was over and the MC and music started again, I left again. Comfort and Baaba came over when it was done and we had a little pow-wow about what we would and would not do next year when asked by the Stake Relief Society again. I pointed out the many, many man-hours spent and asked what the profit was? 400 cedis or around $26. I really feel that next year we should do something that we already know. Not something that takes so many hours to learn. Something that will not cost so much in materials, and something that we know. They both agreed.  So I bought the beaded headband for more than what she asked for. I can't help but wonder where the items will go and if they will ever get paid for?

Relief Society with certificate at our showcase table

Friday Night Baaba and Sister Kaku

Stayed up all night finishing the different projects so they would be ready for Saturday's event. They took a room at the Patron House here on the Area/Temple lot.  They were right here when they needed to bring it all over to the Stake Center

Was it worth it? Hard work is a good thing...for many reasons....at least they both have a new skill.

Note the headband she is holding. I fell in love with that one and bought it - after it came back that day.