heading home

We (Lisa, Sarah and Phil) catch a 6:30am flight back to Philly. We are packed. Our luggage has grown over 30 days!

It's a bittersweet night as our team will be split up for the first time in a month.
We will miss each other and Greece but have fabulous memories.

We have had a wonderful time in this beautiful country. Looking forward to telling you about it and showing you our video!

we are safe and fine

We are far from the riots in Athens. No worries. With our hosts. Will update more later. All is great!

Gorman and the Globe 4.19.10

The Greeks and the Gormans - One in the Same (4/19/10)

Amalia here ... We just visited Stacy's Dad's village where he grew up - Halandritsa - your average sleepy yet charming Greek village town. She was going there for the purpose of meeting her great-aunt for the first time ever. As her aunt wasn't feeling well Stacy went into the house alone, and it turned out for the best as she had a very emotional visit. She and her aunt exchanged thoughts and feelings and passed on loving messages from family members far, far away. While she visited I strolled the tiny town and snapped photos to share with Stacy's father upon our return. I hope that I've captured some familiar locales that will bring him back to his childhood days! As Stacy left it was clear that this is a memory she will soon not forget.

I am so happy to have shared this experience with Stacy as I feel like I also took something away from this joyous meeting. To see Stacy so touched by the love pouring out out of her 92 year old aunt - even though they had never met - truly exemplifies the Greek's cherished family values. Open arms and open hearts - the Greek mentality. It also made me stop and reflect on my own family and our valued relationships. I know how blessed I am to be so close to my relatives. We really are each others best friends, advisors, confidants and overall protectors. We know when to let each other roam and explore - while I miss them all dearly I will bring back to them profound ideas (perhaps!), insight, traditions and most of all - new ways to have fun and celebrate life. And they will welcome me home with open arms and open hearts - just like our fellow Greeks.

Stacy's example today personified the core Greek value - family is the most important thing. And it makes sense to highlight that connection to our Rotary trip because when you sense a strong family bond then you, the individual, are ready to go out into the world and share that good nature with friends and strangers alike. That is what all six of us are demonstrating on our excursion in Greece, and the Greeks are one hundred percent reciprocating. Rotary is the perfect platform for these types of values to be displayed upon - and with our journey here we are communicating that back to our little corner of the world - which is a very comforting thought.

Observations from the beach in Rhodes

This morning after breakfast, Sarah, Phil and I went for a walk with the goal of 'putting our feet into the Aegean Sea and then the Mediterranean.'. Both were right near where we were staying.the weather at about 10:30am was sunny and about 70 degrees. The sand is quite different from what we are used to. It is dark with thick granules. Closer to the water are stones and pebbles that we had to walk on. Honestly, they kind of hurt our feet! Next time beach shoes would be a good idea. Anyway, it was fun to roll up our pant legs and experience the water.



Caught up in the moment, I felt inspired to go up to my room and put on my swimsuit. I met Sarah and Phil on the Aegean side and dove in. It was cold at first but quickly became a totally pleasant experience. The water was blue and calm. It was very easy to swim in, and if you are wondering, it tasted very salty. Not exactly like the water back home but similar. The start of the summer beach season in Greece is May 1 but there were a good number of locals and European visitors enjoying the gorgeous day on the beach.

More about Zakynthos

Now that we have some free time, I want to write more about Zakynthos and show you some pics. That is the place where we saw some of the best scenery. Our hosts drove us up a mountain (on a winding road) where we stopped at various spots to take photos and enjoy the view. We also were amazed at the sight of mountain goats on the side of the road The grounds of a monastery provided some of our favorite photo ops. The day began with a visit to the beach. The water and sand were lovely. The beach is the home of the endangered loggerhead turtle which lay their eggs there. The surrounding nightclubs and clientele threaten this habitat. (Noise, walking on beach, sticking umbrellas in sand.) We did not see any turtles but the island is obviously well-known for them. All the souvenir shops had lots of items with images of turtles.

Symi

A beautiful day today. A 50 minute high speed ferry took the 6 of us to the small island of Symi. We enjoyed walking around the beautiful harbor and stopping into shops and admiring the nicely colored homes in the hills. A shop owner recommended we walk up to the village and visit the museum. After hiking up some hills and what seemed like about a 2,000 steps (slight exaggeration), we found the museum. Closed. Thankfully the views were nice up there, met a nice villager who seemed sympathetic and offered us water on the warm sunny day. We had a ton of laughs and burst out into song on the way back down the steps. Then we enjoyed frappe (like an iced coffee drink) sitting by the harbor. Then we lounged together at the beach until it was time to catch the ferry back to Rhodes. Another wonderful day here.

My hip Greek mom away from home

True to form, after a short ferry and bus ride from Zakynthos, our arrival in Patras was met with open arms and smiling faces from our welcoming Greek hosts who were looking forward to sharing the treasures of Patra with us during the next three days.  I had the fortune of staying with Kyria Lilly, who has an apartment in happening downtown Patra - I immediately felt right at home!  Gracious and open-hearted just begin to describe warm spirit of Kyria Lilly, who went out of her way to make my stay in her beautiful home very comfortable.  Her home reflected her zest for life and was full of happy photographs of friends and family, including her adorable grandchildren - all the best to them!  Our conversations flowed easily and after mere hours together, I felt like I had known her forever - perhaps we were long lost souls who were friends in a previous life. We shared personal stories over morning coffee (Ms. Lilly always made sure to make frappé, my favorite!) and laughed about the day's events together over a homemade snack (toast, another Greek favorite of mine) before retiring to our rooms for the night (she also allowed me to highjack her computer every night - yay Internet!).  It would be impossible to capture every special moment we shared during my stay, but one that bares mention is Kyria Lilly excitedly arranging for me to meet, for the first time ever, my 92-year-old great aunt, Angelica, who lives in a little village just outside of Patra named Halandritsa, where my father was born and raised.  Words alone cannot describe the emotional significance of my visit with Thea Angelica, but suffice it to say that it was an experience that I will cherish forever.  My farewell with Lilly was conditioned upon her promise that I would see her again, either in Patras or  Philadelphia which I look forward to fondly. 

Anastasia 
                               

On The Radio in Rhodes

Today was such a treat. Our Rotary hosts planned some wonderful vocational visits for us. My morning had me at an FM music station where I was interviewed for about 15 minutes. Music was played between the talk breaks so it wasn't all chat. But the time I was on was great fun! The DJ, George, asked about the Rotary GSE program, how I liked Rhodes (told him I LOVE this place!), and things Philly is famous for. He played some of my favorite songs, and after I made a reference to Lady Gaga, he called me Lady Leeeza. In his best radio voice, he said, with his lovely Greek accent, B101-Philadelphia. And in return, I announced the call letters of his station. Off the air, we talked about the differences and similarities between our stations. The photo shows us looking at the computer screen where he's seeing all the e-mails and text messages from listeners. He's promised me an mp3 of my big radio debut in Greece so I look forward to hearing it and reliving such a great experience.

Photos from Rhodes

I've loved all of Greece so far but I think I'm loving Rhodes most of all. Something about the gorgeous colors of the sea (light blue and dark blue) took my breath away when we first arrived. Seeing the sunset over the water was another site to behold. Here are some photos so you can see some of this beauty.

In Patras a spiti away from home

Having lived together for 10 days, the team was a little apprehensive (but still excited) about staying with host families for the first time In the city of Patras. After our poolside welcome lunch of homemade Moussaka, quiche, salad, wine, quince tart and interesting conversation, we knew we had nothing to worry about. To give you a sense of the hospitality, let's just say we had our own robes and slippers, and we each left with a jar of homemade honey. 

Our host brother, Thodoris, showed us a different side of Greece, taking us out on the town during our first night and introducing us to his friends over coffee.  Our host sister, Magda, was cute, charming, and spoke excellent English. Papa Harry invited us to come back anytime. And, Youli, our host mom, gets a special shout out for making us feel like part of the family. 

Our stay epitomized a true cultural exchange. We learned about the Greek economy, industry in Patras, the education system, Greek cooking...and, we taught Youli how to use Facebook. We hope we have the opportunity to return the favor in the States.

Signing off - Phil and Lauren (flat buddies)  

Olympia!

Watch out Jackie Joyner Kersey and Carl Lewis - Team 7450 is taking over Olympia!  Yesterday, our hosts in Patras drove us to the site of the first Olympic games. We wrestled in the original Palestra, raced in the first Olympic stadium, and wandered among the ruins of Zeus' temple, workshops, hotels for VIPs, the Schatzhaus (no, it's not what it sounds like...) Unlike the real olympics, we kept our clothes on.  

Being in Olympia was surprisingly moving. Standing out on the track brought back the pre-race nerves I used to feel in high school waiting in the starting blocks for the gun to go off or the feeling of standing on the javelin runway in college during a big meet. And seeing where they light the Olympic torch before the Games was unreal. I wish my dad, who used to go to almost all of my track meets, could have been there.

Afterwards, we visited the museum and saw the emotional statue of the Greek god Hermes followed by the "Twelve Labors of Hercules."  By the end of the day, we all decided to adopt our tour guide for the day, Theodore, as our team papou (grandfather).

Signing off - Lauren (aka javelin-throwing Kyria Tiri)

Wake Up Call

It's Lisa, writing this while bus driver takes us from Patras to Athens. It's about a 3 hour trip. Then we have time to quickly repack, eat, and get on ferry for an overnight trip to Rhodes.

A quick observation: other than the first night with some time-zone related insomnia, I have slept really well in Greece. The beds have been comfortable, the hosts have been lovely, the dinners end at midnight, and we are keeping so busy that we are truly tired at the end of each day. So what's been waking me up early every morning? Roosters! Every morning. Even in the cities. That doesn't happen in Philly. Ever.

Global Gorman (4.14.10)

Our Guestbook Entry for the Kalimera Village, Archanes-Heraklion, Crete (4/14/10)

Much Gratitude and Thanks to the Kalimera Village!

Upon arrival, we instantly fell in love with your adorable villas! Quiant and charming just scratch the surface - hospitable and accommodating round out the full scope of personal touches and servies received at your well attended property. Each room contains interesting relics that add to the character of this inn and are reflective of the vibrant personalities of our innkeeper, Anna, and her staff who are as warm and friendly as the cozy cottages we have settled into.

Our favorite time of day was breakfast with our YiaYia (adopted Greek Grandmother) Maria, as she whipped up fantastico homemade goodies for us each morning. The village reminds you of the simple things in life, and how important it is to recognize the people who touch your heart.

Gorman Goes Global (4.7.10)

Our first welcome dinner in Piraeus Harbor, Athens (4/7/10)

It's Amalia updating you as each day with our Rotarian hosts continues to top the previous! Courtesy and professionalism are just two words to describe the sophisticated demeanor of this group. Friendly and hospitable are two more words that epitomize the good nature and spirit of the Greeks. We are truly honored to be in the presence of such devoted Rotarians, and they have been extraordinarily accommodating.

Our welcome dinner in Athens took place at the Piraeus Yacht Club - the true gem of this harbor. The historic and beautiful building is situated atop a peak watching over the harbor and shining like a sound beacon of nautical pride for all of its members. We began by having Panos, a current member and the Rotary District Secretary, give our group a brief history of the club and the port, followed by a photography session of the fantastic landscape! We feasted in the wonderfully ornate dining room of solid hardwood and navy striped walls, adorned with old maritime photos and plaques of races competed. The food was delicious, the staff cordial and the company most interesting. Conversation flowed about professions - the mysterious world of fashion (as Panos is an Exec at Dior) and the 2004 Athens Olympic Games were two hot topics. We discussed travel experiences and time spent living abroad; many cultures and the likeness and differences between them and the importance of Rotary - both within our own communities and connection the Rotary organization globally. All in all it was a perfect way to begin our journey through Greece and a in depth introduction to their Rotary mission.

Zakynthos

After a planes, trains and automobiles type journey (minus John Candy) we were greeted by our enthusiastic and filotemi (warmhearted) hosts. 20 minutes later we arrived in a 'Real World' style villa in the countryside of Zakynthos. Night One we had a typically late dinner at a local taverna. It was called Dennis, named either after the patron saint of the island or the man who wrote the national anthem. The food was delicious. Amy said the lamb was the best she ever had in her life.

In case you are wondering...

We are not feeling any effects of the volcano eruption in Iceland. Our skies are clear. All our travel (until flight back to Philly) will be by bus, car, and ferry so all is going according to plan for our Group Study Exchange Team.

And if you are wondering about the economic crisis, people here are talking about it at cafes and on the radio, but we haven't felt any impact. None of our plans have been cancelled and we are really eating well (as mentioned before) and staying in nice places.

I think I died...

and ended up in cheese heaven. By my count, we've only had one cheeseless meal so far. In addition to cheese, our typical days have started with the infamous Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit and herb-infused honey. For breakfast, we've also sampled Greek cocoa puffs, merenda (Greek nutella), crepes, little sausages that look like baby hotdogs, oil poached eggs, hard-boiled eggs, and eggs with cheese, fresh squeezed O.J., pineapple juice that's really apple juice, pastries, sesame sticks (Sarah's favorite) and frappethes (Anastasia's staple weekend drink). Lunch has also been quite a feast. As one example, the typical Cretan lunch that we ate in Hania included about seven courses -bread and olive oil (a staple), dandelion greens, gamey goat, french fries with cheesy Greek gravy, lamb #1 (roasted), salad - kind of like coleslaw without mayo, lamb #2 (boiled) with potatoes, spoons covered with honey for dessert, and the ubiquitous Raki (we've been told it's highly medicinal and serves as an aperatif, digestif, and cure-all). Oh, and we started with Cretan wine - not for the faint of heart. We certainly won't starve here, and I may need to join seven football teams when we get back. - Lauren (aka Kyria Tiri)

Heraklion, Crete

We have been enjoying every minute of our time in Heraklion. Our Rotary hosts took us to some very interesting places for our vocational visits: 2 radio studios, 1 TV station, 1 newspaper, a gorgeous banquet hall,large catering facility, a courthouse, and even a yoga studio.

Yesterday we explored the 'must-see' destination in this area: Knossos Palace. The oldest artifacts in Europe are here. That was followed by a trip to an archaelogical museum. The local Rotary club hosted a nice dinner for us and by the end of the night many were inviting us to stay in touch and connect on Facebook.

Today we are enjoying time in the 'downtown' area where Rotarians who own a salon are offering to style our hair. They have special chairs that massage the back while hair is being washed. A nice bit of pampering during a busy, tiring, but fabulous week.

More will be posted soon about the place where we are staying. It is a wonderful villa owned by a Rotarian who has made us feel so welcome.

Everyone here has worked hard to ensure that we are learning about this area's history, its current business operations, and its lovely, hospitable people.

We are sad to leave on a ferry tonight but look forward to visiting our next destination.

Taking The Stage

Today was the big day--time to present to 75 Rotarians from Southern Greece at the annual District Conference. After another delectable breakfast featuring the famous Greek yogurt and honey (more about food coming soon) we did a practice run through. That got us ready for the debut of our presentation. after a warm introduction, we shared information about personal lives, careers, and our district (history, geography, demographics, etc). Phil got all the big laughs especially when he said 'I love to eat', and when he described a Philly cheesesteak as being like a gyro without the tzatziki sauce. The audience seemed to appreciate our doing our rendition of the Rocky Run when talking about Philadelphia in the movies.

in Chania, Crete

We slept on a ferry and woke up in Crete. Rotarians drove us to Chania where we checked in to a beautiful hotel. A wonderful day exploring the town and old harbor area. A huge, relaxed lunch at an outdoor cafe. Great conversations with warm, interesting Greeks. A little shopping. Dinner at the District Conference was much like a Big Fat Greek Wedding with amazing food and Greek dancing. Yes we danced and have photos to prove it! Will post pics as soon as possible.

An afternoon in Piraeus

Following a 40 minute nap to combat jetlag and a quick lunch of Greek salad and feta cheese (yum!), Amalia and Lauren went to the tip of the Piraeus Harbor to enjoy never-ending sunshine, water lapping and watching sailboats glide past. The introduction to Greece couldn't have been better. On the ride from the aiport, our friendly (and English speaking!) gracious hosts shared information with us on many interesting topics, includine the Greek economy and industries, local hot spots and customs, but most importantly our upcoming agenda. We can't wait for our upcoming dinner with our new friends and hosts as they divulge more knowledge about this beautiful country and their local Rotary clubs. Hints have indicated that we have quite a feast ahead of us!

A Warm Welcome in Piraeus

After the flight, we had time to relax and enjoy the view from our hotel.
Some of us rested, others went exploring the area. We then were taken to a beautiful yacht club where the dinner was amazing and the view of Athens at night was lovely. Our hosts Panayiotis, Aris, Theofanis, and Ted are taking good care of us and have a nice day planned for tomorrow. We all agreed our first day in Greece was awesome, and we're looking forward to the next 29 days!

We've arrived in Greece!

The team had an easy trip to Athens via Zurich. The plane was not full so we could stretch out and be comfortable. We were greeted right away by our Rotary hosts who took us to our hotel so we could rest a bit before they meet us for a Welcome Dinner. More info and pictures to come. Stay tuned.

GSE Training in MA

Lauren wrote the following at the end of January when we attended a GSE training seminar. Now that the blog is up and running...here it is:

Friendly's...

Yes - as in the restaurant where we stopped for dinner in Mt. Kisco, NY and provided entertainment for the locals and also a descriptor for all of the wonderful folks we met at our Group Study Exchange (GSE) orientation in Boxborough, MA.

The session was invaluable for so many reasons:

1). If our team can have that much fun on an 8 hour roadtrip in a minivan to a (hotel, motel) Holiday Inn in Boxborough, I can just imagine how AWESOME our trip to Greece will be!

2). We all have a much better sense of what to expect and how to prepare now to get the most out of the experience. Note to self: read up on Greek customs, history, gender roles, views of Americans...and put together a list of questions inquiring minds would want to know about the birthplace of democracy.

3). I have a much better understanding of Rotary. Wow - there's a lot going on, from efforts to eradicate polio to strategies to distribute shelter boxes to places like Haiti. I even learned how the organization got its name.

4). I got the inspiration I needed to start a blog :)

Meet the Team

Welcome to our blog. We're looking forward to spending our month in Greece, visiting Rotarians in the Athens area and attending the District Conference in Crete. We promise to share photos and information along the way so please check back often.

Here's a quick introduction to the team:

Team Leader:
Lisa Leonard: Voiceover Artist and Radio DJ. Member of the Philadelphia Rotary Club.

Team Members:

Sarah Rogers: Beneficiary Administrator/Yoga Teacher

Lauren Hirshon: Workforce Development Strategist

Philip Fitzgerald: Grant-maker/Financial Analyst

Amy Gorman: Tourism & Hospitality Event Planner

Anastasia Filopoulos: Attorney