Dear Olly and Mae
Well, were the hills alive with the sound of music? Did you solve all Maria’s problems? I was going to add to the challenge by insisting that Olly wear lederhosen, but I figured I might be pushing it with that.
Do you remember how I used to joke with you, Olly, when you first went to university? I’d say that if you ever decided to emigrate, I was coming too. And then, quick as a whip, you’d reply, you’d better believe it, Pops. Who else is gonna carry my cases?
You always made me laugh, lad.
Now, I need to share with you what’s going to happen next. I hope you’re rested, because you have a bit of driving to do over the next two days. About 900 km in total, which I know is a lot. But you need to travel across Hungary and into Romania.
I’ve told you a few times that I wanted you all to see a different world. Well, the next couple of weeks I think will be life-changing for you all. Or, at least, I hope they will. Because your challenge, this time, is a big one.
Olly, do you remember a guy I used to work with, called Andy O’Connor? Well, he’s retired now and works for a charity in Romania. He does amazing work with orphanages over there. Rebuilding them for the kids and building homes for families. For two weeks you will all be volunteering with his charity at one of the orphanages. Andy is expecting you and will show you all the ropes.
Your next letter is in two weeks. This will be tough, I daresay. But I have faith in the Guinnesses. I have faith that you will be able to deal with whatever the next few weeks throw at you.
Work hard, learn, teach and make a difference.
Love
Pops x