Hey all, we were having some major internet issues the last few days in Ruhengeri. I will start with today's experiences (Monday) and try to get kids to work backwards (Sunday and Saturday).
I was able to retrieve Friday's post (It is right below this one). We will be cleaning them up when we get home and adding some photos as well.
We are all safe and happy. The kids are great.
Today we got to sleep-in a bit at the Iris (Met for bus at 9:30). After a lite breakfast we boarded the bus for the Kigali Genocide Museum and Memorial.
What a moving experience. The museum gave a great and detailed overview of the genocide and the events leading up to it.
We allowed 2 hours thinking students would be done in plenty of time but most of the kids pushed it until the very end. Your kids are pretty mature and really were trying to absorb not only the factual history but the many, many narrative accounts.
Many students commented on the impact that the Children's Room had on them.
Please ask your child about it.
After having lunch in the city center we departed for Nyamata Genocide Memorial.
Nyamata Church was the site of a massacre of 10,000 Tutsi's. After a self tour of the grounds and the church many of the students went down into the crypts that have been dug in the back of the church.
A very overwhelming experience.
All students seemed to find a private spot, wrote in their journals, and processed quietly.
We got back on the bus and traveled to another church about 10 minutes away, Nytarama. 5,000 Tutsis were killed at this site.
Upon arriving at Ntarama we were greeted by a Tutsi survivor of the massacre there, Gaspard. Gaspard gave us an overview of the genocide and a personal account of Ntarama (He actually told the story of the genocide using the 8 Stages of Genocide which the students who had me for GSJ in 8th grade remembered).
He brought us through the church, some of the houses on the memorial grounds and a building used for Sunday school and then the murder of of many of the village children.
Not a sound from our students as Gaspard showed us the spot where 100's of babies were thrown against a brick wall or as he described the sexual brutalization of 100's of women.
Needless to say, his words made a huge impact.
The students have done a great job of processing the experiences and giving each other room to process as well.
It was nice (and very healthy) for the children to chat, laugh and decompress at an Italian restaurant for 2+ hours afterwards.
They needed that.
(BTW-We surprised Mitchell with a birthday Tiramisu with a candle).
We pulled into the Iris Guesthouse around 8:15, had a large group meeting, then most of the kids headed down to the store to buy more sugar.
(Most kids are commenting that they have drank more Coke on this trip than in the past year).
Tomorrow is another long day. We depart at 8 am for the 3 hour bus ride to Butare where we will take lunch then drive another 1 hour to Murambi and back.
Murambi will be another intense and unique genocide experience.
Thanks for reading and sorry about the disruption.
I can assure you that all is well (kids are not going to want to leave) and we are safe and sound.
Amahoro,
Cave
Monday, June 20, 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Sunday June 19-Day 5 of Group Activities
Today Anne Giulia Melissa Sophie & myself (Elise) got on a bus with the brick making group at 8 am. The bus ride was about 20 minutes to drop off the brick making group and about another 20 to get to the spot where we were going to continue creating a house for one of the elderly women living in the village. The way we started was everyone got in a line and we passed bricks down the line to place them where the real workers wanted them. After about a half hour of that we walked down to an underground spring with a bunch of buckets that we later filled. The walk was beautiful. After returning with the full buckets we continued passing bricks for another 45 minutes. The experience was great.
-Elise Overman, group 1
Our group, which consisted of Cat, Izaak, Mikayla, and I woke up and boarded a bus at 8 am, and drove for 20 minutes to the brick making site. As soon as we arrived, we were kindly greeted by a large group of adorable little children who followed us into the brick making area. Right away we got to work, carrying clumps of clay from a huge mound, and creating little piles next to the work stations. The children were very helpful in teaching us how to make a brick properly. We first started out by taking the wood mold and soaking it in water for a couple seconds. The brick making process is then continued by packing the mold with clay, coating it with layer of water, and finally carrying it to the ground, where each brick is carefully pushed out of the mold. As one can assume, this process is repeated various times,our group creating just around 200 bricks. Despite the mess, and looking like you just got a very poorly done spray tan on your arms and legs, this activity was by far my favorite.
-Eleanor Raether: group 5
Today Mr. Kuntz's group (Sam, Isaac, Sarah, Taylor, and Jimmy) went to make baskets and mats. To get there, we took about an hour walk, which was absolutely beautiful. We really got to see what Rwanda really looks like on the walk, that it truly is the "Land of 1000 Hills." When we got there, each one of us was taught by a different woman about how to weave the baskets. After watching them for a few minutes, we got to do it ourselves. A little while later the chief even came and sat down to watch us, and was rather impressed with our work. After about an hour of basket weaving, our fingers cramping from the handiwork, we stopped so we could buy our own baskets. I (Jimmy) ended up buying 6 or 7 baskets, as did everyone else in my group. The woman even let us keep the ones we had worked on, free of charge. We got in the car that picked us up to bring us home, all comparing baskets and talking about whose own was the best. Despite the finger cramps and needle-breaks, this was definitely one of my favorite experiences in Ruhengeri.
-Jimmy Borin, Group 3
Today in Twick's group (Hartwick, Gabby, Mitch, Chloe, Krista, Jake, and Sam from Mr. Kuntz group came with us) we went on a trek to go see some mountain gorillas. First of all, it started with a steep hike up a side of a hill that lasted about an hour and a half. This was a hard hike because the elevation made you really tired and out of breath. Then we reached the "wall" which was the edge of the forest where the national park began. We went through some dense forests and we had no clue where we were going. Then, I (Jake) went through some trees and I looked to me left and literally there was a gorilla sitting a foot away from me. Then our guide, Patience, brought us to a clearing where the gorilla family was sitting. We just watched a family of gorillas from about 6 feet away for about an hour. The family consisted of a silverback, which was the father, a couple of older women gorillas, about four smaller male gorillas and one baby gorilla. It was so awesome to be sitting so close to these gorillas and just watching them wresting and eat. When we left, we had to walk really close to them and they all just glared at us. That was kind of scary. Once we got out of the forest, we were literally in a cloud and you couldn't see anything that was in front of you. It was probably the coolest experience I've had in Rwanda. I will never forget the day I spent with the mountain gorillas of Rwanda.
-Jake Sherman, group 2
Today we ran out of breakfast food. So at sunrise, Mrs. Hinnendael and I ran out to the store to get some bread. After enjoying a breakfast of peanut butter, bread, and bananas, Kathy Kuntz, Jordan Dritz, Zach Cave, Rachel Frenz, and I were off to Imbabazi Orphanage. The car ride was long and bumpy, but with Alex as our guide, we got the inside scoop to everything that we passed. When the white gates squeaked open, we were met by Jeff Ramsey, the head of Imbabazi. He offered to give us a tour through Rosamond Carr's gardens. And let me tell you, the pictures that I took cannot show the immense beauty of these flowers, which they don't water because of the lack of water (what??!!). I have this picture of me holding a hydrangea, which is three or four times the size of my hand. After wandering through the dancing garden, we returned to the main part of the orphanage to start our task of the day--painting. Because it was Sunday, some of the kids were home from school and helped us paint. We got two bedrooms rooms painted, with the help of twentyish kids. After we were done and waiting for lunch, a few boys asked us to play a pick up game of soccer. That was when I met Samuel, a bashful boy of about 13 or 14 dressed in a blue sweater and blue rubber flip flops. He would quietly snicker at my "awesome soccer moves." When lunch was ready, everyone went into the room that other groups had painted during the week. I pulled Samuel next to me and challenged Samuel to a rice/bean eating contest (not a good idea). These were actually the best rice and bean combination I had eaten this entire trip but the serving could legitimately feed my entire family. I still can't figure out how such a small boy could eat that much food, but he smirked as he pushed his empty bowl towards me. We headed home so we wouldn't be late for the Twa Village.
We unloaded our bus to the pounding of a drum, the shuffling of feet, and voices sounding from within a small hut. As we piled all 30 of us into this small hut, the dance began. The intense stomping of their jingling feet caused dust to rise from the floor creating a hazy fog. After about two songs, the dancers invited Isaac Melin, Taylor Kenyon, and me to share a dance with them. Wow, do they make it look easier than it is! I get lost in all of my feet and forget which one is pounding where so it ends up being an awkward foxtrotish stomp. But anyways after the welcoming celebration came to a close, we were welcome to explore the village. A woman invited me into her pitch black house to take a look around. Instead of lighting a match or something, this old village woman took out her cellphone and used it as a flashlight to show me around. Soon enough it was time to leave. I was saying goodbye to everyone and a younger man stopped me asking if 1) I was a girl? and 2) if I had a telephone number? I think I'm flattered that he asked my gender. But all in all, visiting the Twa Village was a great way to wrap up our trip to Ruhengeri. Hope all is going well in Minnesooooota. I'll see you all soon.
-Anna Landis, Group 4
-Elise Overman, group 1
Our group, which consisted of Cat, Izaak, Mikayla, and I woke up and boarded a bus at 8 am, and drove for 20 minutes to the brick making site. As soon as we arrived, we were kindly greeted by a large group of adorable little children who followed us into the brick making area. Right away we got to work, carrying clumps of clay from a huge mound, and creating little piles next to the work stations. The children were very helpful in teaching us how to make a brick properly. We first started out by taking the wood mold and soaking it in water for a couple seconds. The brick making process is then continued by packing the mold with clay, coating it with layer of water, and finally carrying it to the ground, where each brick is carefully pushed out of the mold. As one can assume, this process is repeated various times,our group creating just around 200 bricks. Despite the mess, and looking like you just got a very poorly done spray tan on your arms and legs, this activity was by far my favorite.
-Eleanor Raether: group 5
Today Mr. Kuntz's group (Sam, Isaac, Sarah, Taylor, and Jimmy) went to make baskets and mats. To get there, we took about an hour walk, which was absolutely beautiful. We really got to see what Rwanda really looks like on the walk, that it truly is the "Land of 1000 Hills." When we got there, each one of us was taught by a different woman about how to weave the baskets. After watching them for a few minutes, we got to do it ourselves. A little while later the chief even came and sat down to watch us, and was rather impressed with our work. After about an hour of basket weaving, our fingers cramping from the handiwork, we stopped so we could buy our own baskets. I (Jimmy) ended up buying 6 or 7 baskets, as did everyone else in my group. The woman even let us keep the ones we had worked on, free of charge. We got in the car that picked us up to bring us home, all comparing baskets and talking about whose own was the best. Despite the finger cramps and needle-breaks, this was definitely one of my favorite experiences in Ruhengeri.
-Jimmy Borin, Group 3
Today in Twick's group (Hartwick, Gabby, Mitch, Chloe, Krista, Jake, and Sam from Mr. Kuntz group came with us) we went on a trek to go see some mountain gorillas. First of all, it started with a steep hike up a side of a hill that lasted about an hour and a half. This was a hard hike because the elevation made you really tired and out of breath. Then we reached the "wall" which was the edge of the forest where the national park began. We went through some dense forests and we had no clue where we were going. Then, I (Jake) went through some trees and I looked to me left and literally there was a gorilla sitting a foot away from me. Then our guide, Patience, brought us to a clearing where the gorilla family was sitting. We just watched a family of gorillas from about 6 feet away for about an hour. The family consisted of a silverback, which was the father, a couple of older women gorillas, about four smaller male gorillas and one baby gorilla. It was so awesome to be sitting so close to these gorillas and just watching them wresting and eat. When we left, we had to walk really close to them and they all just glared at us. That was kind of scary. Once we got out of the forest, we were literally in a cloud and you couldn't see anything that was in front of you. It was probably the coolest experience I've had in Rwanda. I will never forget the day I spent with the mountain gorillas of Rwanda.
-Jake Sherman, group 2
Today we ran out of breakfast food. So at sunrise, Mrs. Hinnendael and I ran out to the store to get some bread. After enjoying a breakfast of peanut butter, bread, and bananas, Kathy Kuntz, Jordan Dritz, Zach Cave, Rachel Frenz, and I were off to Imbabazi Orphanage. The car ride was long and bumpy, but with Alex as our guide, we got the inside scoop to everything that we passed. When the white gates squeaked open, we were met by Jeff Ramsey, the head of Imbabazi. He offered to give us a tour through Rosamond Carr's gardens. And let me tell you, the pictures that I took cannot show the immense beauty of these flowers, which they don't water because of the lack of water (what??!!). I have this picture of me holding a hydrangea, which is three or four times the size of my hand. After wandering through the dancing garden, we returned to the main part of the orphanage to start our task of the day--painting. Because it was Sunday, some of the kids were home from school and helped us paint. We got two bedrooms rooms painted, with the help of twentyish kids. After we were done and waiting for lunch, a few boys asked us to play a pick up game of soccer. That was when I met Samuel, a bashful boy of about 13 or 14 dressed in a blue sweater and blue rubber flip flops. He would quietly snicker at my "awesome soccer moves." When lunch was ready, everyone went into the room that other groups had painted during the week. I pulled Samuel next to me and challenged Samuel to a rice/bean eating contest (not a good idea). These were actually the best rice and bean combination I had eaten this entire trip but the serving could legitimately feed my entire family. I still can't figure out how such a small boy could eat that much food, but he smirked as he pushed his empty bowl towards me. We headed home so we wouldn't be late for the Twa Village.
We unloaded our bus to the pounding of a drum, the shuffling of feet, and voices sounding from within a small hut. As we piled all 30 of us into this small hut, the dance began. The intense stomping of their jingling feet caused dust to rise from the floor creating a hazy fog. After about two songs, the dancers invited Isaac Melin, Taylor Kenyon, and me to share a dance with them. Wow, do they make it look easier than it is! I get lost in all of my feet and forget which one is pounding where so it ends up being an awkward foxtrotish stomp. But anyways after the welcoming celebration came to a close, we were welcome to explore the village. A woman invited me into her pitch black house to take a look around. Instead of lighting a match or something, this old village woman took out her cellphone and used it as a flashlight to show me around. Soon enough it was time to leave. I was saying goodbye to everyone and a younger man stopped me asking if 1) I was a girl? and 2) if I had a telephone number? I think I'm flattered that he asked my gender. But all in all, visiting the Twa Village was a great way to wrap up our trip to Ruhengeri. Hope all is going well in Minnesooooota. I'll see you all soon.
-Anna Landis, Group 4
Friday, June 17, 2011
Day Four of Cultural Activities
Group 3: Borin, Hafferman, Kenyon, Kuntz, Luther, melin, Silvestri
Activity: Gorilla Trek
What better way to spend Jimmy's 16th birthday than on a gorilla trek admist the rwandan volacone national park. We arrived at the Gorilla trekking headquarters at about 7 am and we're assigned to trak the Ugenda Group with our guide Augustine. Two other women joined our group, one from germany, and teh other from Boston. Once at the trail head we were handed our walking sticks as we shedded our jacket on the warm sunny morning. We then began our aproach to the wall which took about 45 minutes due to several stops for pictures and for the Boston woman to adjust to the altitude changes. Once over the wall, which surrounds the mountain, we made our way to the two men tracking our group. This stretch of the hike took aboput 15 minutes. Once we found them we dropped our bags and sticks, grabbed our cameras, and headed for the gorillas. We found them quickly; they we're feeding in several bushes spread out amoungst us. Soon they we're on the move, and after that they rarely stopped for more than a few minutes. This group of 13 gorrilas was properly named seeing the Ugenda means "to travel" in English. So we continued to follow the gorrilas for an hour or so. We often got in their path and they often ended up passing a few inches from us. Sometimes you would just have to put down your camera and just take it all in. It was a great experience for everyone, except unfortunately Sam Hafferman had to stay behind due to a stomach sickness. After the trek we all enjoyed a bite of pizza before heading home.
-taylor kenyon
Group 2- (Gabby,Krista,Mitch,Jake,Chole,Jeff)
Today our group went to AIDP to start laying down the bricks for the walls of the house we are building; the whole experience made me appreciate how thankful I am for a sink in my house. upon arriving the first thing Chole, Krista and I (Gabby) did was pick up two jugs each and go on a 10 minute walk to the hearest water source; how they remember this path I have no idea! After we filled our jugs at the stream the women leading us proceded in balancing the large jug of water on her head and walking back the whole way without any promblem... I was in shock. After I decided that getting water wasnt my thing i decided to help in a assembly line that were passing along bricks into the house. Construction in Rwnada is very different from the US; they literally have rock floors and make the walls out of bricks made of mudd and put iut all together with mudd. When we asked our guide where the orignial house of the owners was who were recieving the new house they pointed to a shack with no walls and a roof made of tin(where the kids slept); it was very sad. The mother and grandma slept outside. It was very fun to build the house and made me appreciate my home so much:)!!!
Group 5: Consisting of Eleanor, Cat, Izaak, Michaela, and Mrs. Hinnendale
Activity: Imbambazi Orphanage
I think I can speak for everyone in our group that today was probably the easiest and more realxing of the days that we have spent so far. It started out with our whole group waiting for an extra hour and a half for our taxi to come pick us up at the BG Guest House, and drive for approximately an hour to the Imbambazi Orphanage. Despite the extremely rocky and un-paved roads, the view was amazing. We would turn a corner, and all of a sudden see an enormeous area full of lush and green farming, trees, and plants. As soon as we arrived at the orphanage, we went straight to painting. Despite drop of paint splattering on our faces or hair every so often, painting the ceiling of the dining house was very entertainig and easy. Shortly after, we were served an imense ammount of potatoes and beans for lunch. Being able to say that only one out of our whole group could finish the plate really says something. We were then given a tuor of the grounds, which were full of beautiful flowers and plants. The never-ending gardens were absolutely magnificent. After a great deal of picture taking, it was time to hit the road once again, and come home. Overall, the day was fun, but also less tiring when compared to the gorilla trek. Can't wait for the Gorilla Naming Ceremony tomorrow!
Eleanor Raether
Group 1: Melissa Luther, Anne, Guilia, Sophie, Elise
Activity: Brick Making
Today we went brick making. we woke up around 7:15 to get ready and eat breakfast then we left the house in a van around 8 o'clock. IUt was two groups fitting in one small van so it looked almost like a clown car with 10 kids in the back and one teacher, then three people up front including the driver. the drive was about 20 minutes over then 5 minutes of unleveled road and then our group was let off at the brick making site. we didn't have a guide along with us so it made communication fairly difficult. we arrive to a small working area with mud all over then we knew what we were getting into. they showed us how to make a brick. They had a wooden mold that we would put mud into then we would add come water and make it flat as possible, we then would walk it over to the stair case that we were laying the bricks on and push it out with another rectangle wood piece. we did this continuously for three hours. many of us got tired fast and the sun was getting to us. by the time we got the call that the car was coming to pick us up we all were resting eating sugar cane. we left in the car to go to volcanoe pizza.it is the most american food here i think. the place is made of volcanoe rock and two levels tall. we eat on the upper level looking out to the view of the city and all the bright colors here. today was a very fun day i think, the bricks are one of my favorite activities so far because it is such a hands on activity. we hav the gorilla naming ceremony tomorrow so that will be very exciting the trip is half over and i cant believe it. i love it here.
-melissa luther
group 4 (zach, rachel, anna, jordan, and kathy)
greetings everyone!
today our small group activity was making baskets with the widows. it is the only activity to walk to the destination, so we started walking around 830. hassan, a worker for amahoro tours, was our guide to the baskets. the walk was so pretty. we got to see all different things. the views the whole enntire time was spectacular. we'd be on a hill and be looking down and be able to see the crops, houses, people, the hills, etc. the walk was around 5 to 6 kilometers which is around
Activity: Gorilla Trek
What better way to spend Jimmy's 16th birthday than on a gorilla trek admist the rwandan volacone national park. We arrived at the Gorilla trekking headquarters at about 7 am and we're assigned to trak the Ugenda Group with our guide Augustine. Two other women joined our group, one from germany, and teh other from Boston. Once at the trail head we were handed our walking sticks as we shedded our jacket on the warm sunny morning. We then began our aproach to the wall which took about 45 minutes due to several stops for pictures and for the Boston woman to adjust to the altitude changes. Once over the wall, which surrounds the mountain, we made our way to the two men tracking our group. This stretch of the hike took aboput 15 minutes. Once we found them we dropped our bags and sticks, grabbed our cameras, and headed for the gorillas. We found them quickly; they we're feeding in several bushes spread out amoungst us. Soon they we're on the move, and after that they rarely stopped for more than a few minutes. This group of 13 gorrilas was properly named seeing the Ugenda means "to travel" in English. So we continued to follow the gorrilas for an hour or so. We often got in their path and they often ended up passing a few inches from us. Sometimes you would just have to put down your camera and just take it all in. It was a great experience for everyone, except unfortunately Sam Hafferman had to stay behind due to a stomach sickness. After the trek we all enjoyed a bite of pizza before heading home.
-taylor kenyon
Group 2- (Gabby,Krista,Mitch,Jake,Chole,Jeff)
Today our group went to AIDP to start laying down the bricks for the walls of the house we are building; the whole experience made me appreciate how thankful I am for a sink in my house. upon arriving the first thing Chole, Krista and I (Gabby) did was pick up two jugs each and go on a 10 minute walk to the hearest water source; how they remember this path I have no idea! After we filled our jugs at the stream the women leading us proceded in balancing the large jug of water on her head and walking back the whole way without any promblem... I was in shock. After I decided that getting water wasnt my thing i decided to help in a assembly line that were passing along bricks into the house. Construction in Rwnada is very different from the US; they literally have rock floors and make the walls out of bricks made of mudd and put iut all together with mudd. When we asked our guide where the orignial house of the owners was who were recieving the new house they pointed to a shack with no walls and a roof made of tin(where the kids slept); it was very sad. The mother and grandma slept outside. It was very fun to build the house and made me appreciate my home so much:)!!!
Group 5: Consisting of Eleanor, Cat, Izaak, Michaela, and Mrs. Hinnendale
Activity: Imbambazi Orphanage
I think I can speak for everyone in our group that today was probably the easiest and more realxing of the days that we have spent so far. It started out with our whole group waiting for an extra hour and a half for our taxi to come pick us up at the BG Guest House, and drive for approximately an hour to the Imbambazi Orphanage. Despite the extremely rocky and un-paved roads, the view was amazing. We would turn a corner, and all of a sudden see an enormeous area full of lush and green farming, trees, and plants. As soon as we arrived at the orphanage, we went straight to painting. Despite drop of paint splattering on our faces or hair every so often, painting the ceiling of the dining house was very entertainig and easy. Shortly after, we were served an imense ammount of potatoes and beans for lunch. Being able to say that only one out of our whole group could finish the plate really says something. We were then given a tuor of the grounds, which were full of beautiful flowers and plants. The never-ending gardens were absolutely magnificent. After a great deal of picture taking, it was time to hit the road once again, and come home. Overall, the day was fun, but also less tiring when compared to the gorilla trek. Can't wait for the Gorilla Naming Ceremony tomorrow!
Eleanor Raether
Group 1: Melissa Luther, Anne, Guilia, Sophie, Elise
Activity: Brick Making
Today we went brick making. we woke up around 7:15 to get ready and eat breakfast then we left the house in a van around 8 o'clock. IUt was two groups fitting in one small van so it looked almost like a clown car with 10 kids in the back and one teacher, then three people up front including the driver. the drive was about 20 minutes over then 5 minutes of unleveled road and then our group was let off at the brick making site. we didn't have a guide along with us so it made communication fairly difficult. we arrive to a small working area with mud all over then we knew what we were getting into. they showed us how to make a brick. They had a wooden mold that we would put mud into then we would add come water and make it flat as possible, we then would walk it over to the stair case that we were laying the bricks on and push it out with another rectangle wood piece. we did this continuously for three hours. many of us got tired fast and the sun was getting to us. by the time we got the call that the car was coming to pick us up we all were resting eating sugar cane. we left in the car to go to volcanoe pizza.it is the most american food here i think. the place is made of volcanoe rock and two levels tall. we eat on the upper level looking out to the view of the city and all the bright colors here. today was a very fun day i think, the bricks are one of my favorite activities so far because it is such a hands on activity. we hav the gorilla naming ceremony tomorrow so that will be very exciting the trip is half over and i cant believe it. i love it here.
-melissa luther
group 4 (zach, rachel, anna, jordan, and kathy)
greetings everyone!
today our small group activity was making baskets with the widows. it is the only activity to walk to the destination, so we started walking around 830. hassan, a worker for amahoro tours, was our guide to the baskets. the walk was so pretty. we got to see all different things. the views the whole enntire time was spectacular. we'd be on a hill and be looking down and be able to see the crops, houses, people, the hills, etc. the walk was around 5 to 6 kilometers which is around
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Day Three of Cultural Activities
Brick Making: very dirty, hard, phsical labor, but surprisingly fun. Today our group set out on mission to our brick making experience, we were determined to be the best brick making group of the whole trip. We had heard that yesterday Sam had made 100 bricks all by himself, so Jake and I (Mitch Forsythe) attempted to top the record. By the end of our time we both created 105 bricks just barly topping Sam. However it was not only me and Jake our entire group created astounding numbers of bricks. The girls - (Chloe, Krista, Gabby) who I didn't think would be very into getting really dirty and making bricks - actually created impressive numbers of bricks at around 50 each. Our "rep" Jeff Hartwick made around 50 brick himself with leftover time to take pictures of all of us. In total I would estimate that our group made a total of 400 bricks in a bout an hour and half, impressive for first time brick makers. -Mitch Forsythe
Group 4 (dritz, landis, frenz, zach cave, mrs. kuntz)
Gorilla Trek: Less than a week ago I fractured my calcaneus (that is medical speak for breaking my heel bone). If someone had asked me then if I could treck 4 hours in the jungle up a mountain, I would have laughed. But, with some encouragement from my friends here and at home, and with a some advil too, I managed to make it. The day started out as I would have expected: we woke up bright and early, around 5:30 AM, ate breakfast (today it was bread, peanut butter,and banannas), and then loaded the safari taxi to head off to volcanoes national park for the trek. When we got to headquarters we were given our guide and everything seemed to be going perfect. Then, we were approaced by the manager and told that our group of four students and one chaperone needed to be split into a group of two and a group of three. At first, we were aprehensive about being split up, but it worked out really great and we were given a great guide to go with us. Zach and I were the chosen two to go into the other group. When we began our trek, it became clear that it was going to be a humerous day. Trudging through calf deep mud and up steep mountain sides and then down deep revenes was no small feat for a girl with a broken foot (no pun intended), but it worked out great. Zach was right behind me the whole way making sure that I was fine. Our other treking mates were another story. We trecked with 6 other people The first, a french Canadian, was a newly single man traveling the Jungle alone. After expierencing the trek with him, I now understand the term "pardon my french". The next three people were a couple from New York, who were very anxious to see the gorillas, and their personal tour guide from Tanzania. The tour guide told me many times in his British accent about his boys who go to boarding school in the US. The remaining two were a couple of French Canadians who were living in Sydney Australia. They were the epitome of out of shape adults. Zach and I found humor in how many breaks they needed to take. Once we finally reached the Gorillas after two hours of treking, the expierence was incredible. Watching the beautiful creatures in their habitat is something that words can not describe. There was 7 Gorillas in the family that we saw. The leader of the pack, known as the silver back, charged the unathletic man from Sydney and ripped his shirt. It was scary and hilarous all at the same time. I was not that worried because our tour guide is very expierenced and had the situation under control when he spoke ape to the gorilla. Who knew apes had a language? On the way back, the couple from Australia wanted to stop for a picnick, it was beautiful to enjoy a snack in the jungle. In the end it was very tiring, but I loved every minute of it and I am so glad that I was able to Gorilla Trek, even if I do have a broken foot.
- Jordan Dritz
Group 1 (Anne Arnason, Giulia Imholte, Melissa Luther, Elise Overman, Sophie Ronning, Mr.Cave)
Today, we started our day off with a long car ride out to Imbabazi Orphanage. The hour flew by because of the beautiful scenery and kids happy to see us. Imbabazi Orphanage was started in 1994 by Rosamond Carr for orphans of the genocide. Because they were orphans of the genocide, most of the students are a bit older. The few kids we got to meet were very nice, and grateful that we were there. They were as eager to try out their new English skills as we were to try out our Kinyarwandan! We first got a tour of the beautiful gardens, the dorms, and the kitchen. After our tour, we were led on a hike to see a crater made by a nearby volcano. I wasn't expecting what we saw when I heard we were seeing a crater. In the middle of what appeared to be another Rwandan hill, was a large crater filled with lush, green farmland and Rwandan farmers. It was beautiful. After taking our fair share of pictures, we hiked back, and then started our work for the day. Our job was to paint the ceiling of the dining room at Imbabazi. After many paint splotches on our hair, clothing, and the floor, we were finished with our work for the day. We then ate the lunch that most of the students eat every day. The portion of beans and white corn meal was tasty, yet very filling. After we finished eating, we said goodbye to our new friends, and hit the road. The rest of the day was spent making trips for Fanta, visiting the market, and hanging out at the guesthouse. Tomorrow we look forward to making bricks!
Love to all those in Minnesota
Anne Arnason
Group 5 (Cat Kernan, Izaak Lundberk, Eleanor Raether, Mikayla Coulombe, Mrs. Hinnendale)
Today, we started our day with basket weaving. Originally we would have walked about an hour and a half to the site, but because our group walked for AIDP on our first day in Ruhengeri, we took a cab. The ride was only about fifteen minutes and the roads were much less bumpy than usual--typically we have to go about 5 miles/hour and we're bouncing all over the place in the back. When we arrived at the site where we would be basket weaving, four women showed us how to weave. They use a very specific type of grass for their baskets and they soak some of it in paint in order to give it color. Today, I used tan, blue, and green grass to make a small basket for jewelry. We wove baskets for a couple of hours and it took much longer to weave than I thought it would. When we asked the women how long it usually took to weave a basket, they told us that it took about two full days for a smaller basket and almost five days for the largest baskets. When we finished weaving for the day, we shopped for baskets!! The many colors, patterns, and varieties of baskets were beautiful and it was difficult to choose. Each of us bought at least two or three baskets, and all that money goes straight to AIDP which builds houses for families in need. When we arrived back at the guesthouse we went to lunch and shopped at the clothing market. Then it was time for group 5 to hit the food market for dinner. We decided to make tacos/burritos with beef, rice, peas, and avocados. For dessert we got popcorn and chocolate, so the guest house was happy and full! The rest of the night will be filled with card games, relaxing, and getting ready for tomorrow's activities. Tomorrow we go to the orphanage!
Cat Kernan
Group 3 (Mr. Kuntz, Isaac, Jimmy, Sam, Taylor, and Sarah)
Today we went to AIDP. We went to a fondation of a house, and we started to fill the inside with rocks. We made it level, because it will be the floor. The group tomorrow will be pouring in the mud to fill in all the spaces. We were there for about 2 hours, but all we did was put rocks in the foundation, so there isn't much to say. Tomorrow we go to the gorilla trek, and everyone is really looking forward to it, even though we need to be up at 5:30...!
Isaac Melin
Group 4 (dritz, landis, frenz, zach cave, mrs. kuntz)
Gorilla Trek: Less than a week ago I fractured my calcaneus (that is medical speak for breaking my heel bone). If someone had asked me then if I could treck 4 hours in the jungle up a mountain, I would have laughed. But, with some encouragement from my friends here and at home, and with a some advil too, I managed to make it. The day started out as I would have expected: we woke up bright and early, around 5:30 AM, ate breakfast (today it was bread, peanut butter,and banannas), and then loaded the safari taxi to head off to volcanoes national park for the trek. When we got to headquarters we were given our guide and everything seemed to be going perfect. Then, we were approaced by the manager and told that our group of four students and one chaperone needed to be split into a group of two and a group of three. At first, we were aprehensive about being split up, but it worked out really great and we were given a great guide to go with us. Zach and I were the chosen two to go into the other group. When we began our trek, it became clear that it was going to be a humerous day. Trudging through calf deep mud and up steep mountain sides and then down deep revenes was no small feat for a girl with a broken foot (no pun intended), but it worked out great. Zach was right behind me the whole way making sure that I was fine. Our other treking mates were another story. We trecked with 6 other people The first, a french Canadian, was a newly single man traveling the Jungle alone. After expierencing the trek with him, I now understand the term "pardon my french". The next three people were a couple from New York, who were very anxious to see the gorillas, and their personal tour guide from Tanzania. The tour guide told me many times in his British accent about his boys who go to boarding school in the US. The remaining two were a couple of French Canadians who were living in Sydney Australia. They were the epitome of out of shape adults. Zach and I found humor in how many breaks they needed to take. Once we finally reached the Gorillas after two hours of treking, the expierence was incredible. Watching the beautiful creatures in their habitat is something that words can not describe. There was 7 Gorillas in the family that we saw. The leader of the pack, known as the silver back, charged the unathletic man from Sydney and ripped his shirt. It was scary and hilarous all at the same time. I was not that worried because our tour guide is very expierenced and had the situation under control when he spoke ape to the gorilla. Who knew apes had a language? On the way back, the couple from Australia wanted to stop for a picnick, it was beautiful to enjoy a snack in the jungle. In the end it was very tiring, but I loved every minute of it and I am so glad that I was able to Gorilla Trek, even if I do have a broken foot.
- Jordan Dritz
Group 1 (Anne Arnason, Giulia Imholte, Melissa Luther, Elise Overman, Sophie Ronning, Mr.Cave)
Today, we started our day off with a long car ride out to Imbabazi Orphanage. The hour flew by because of the beautiful scenery and kids happy to see us. Imbabazi Orphanage was started in 1994 by Rosamond Carr for orphans of the genocide. Because they were orphans of the genocide, most of the students are a bit older. The few kids we got to meet were very nice, and grateful that we were there. They were as eager to try out their new English skills as we were to try out our Kinyarwandan! We first got a tour of the beautiful gardens, the dorms, and the kitchen. After our tour, we were led on a hike to see a crater made by a nearby volcano. I wasn't expecting what we saw when I heard we were seeing a crater. In the middle of what appeared to be another Rwandan hill, was a large crater filled with lush, green farmland and Rwandan farmers. It was beautiful. After taking our fair share of pictures, we hiked back, and then started our work for the day. Our job was to paint the ceiling of the dining room at Imbabazi. After many paint splotches on our hair, clothing, and the floor, we were finished with our work for the day. We then ate the lunch that most of the students eat every day. The portion of beans and white corn meal was tasty, yet very filling. After we finished eating, we said goodbye to our new friends, and hit the road. The rest of the day was spent making trips for Fanta, visiting the market, and hanging out at the guesthouse. Tomorrow we look forward to making bricks!
Love to all those in Minnesota
Anne Arnason
Group 5 (Cat Kernan, Izaak Lundberk, Eleanor Raether, Mikayla Coulombe, Mrs. Hinnendale)
Today, we started our day with basket weaving. Originally we would have walked about an hour and a half to the site, but because our group walked for AIDP on our first day in Ruhengeri, we took a cab. The ride was only about fifteen minutes and the roads were much less bumpy than usual--typically we have to go about 5 miles/hour and we're bouncing all over the place in the back. When we arrived at the site where we would be basket weaving, four women showed us how to weave. They use a very specific type of grass for their baskets and they soak some of it in paint in order to give it color. Today, I used tan, blue, and green grass to make a small basket for jewelry. We wove baskets for a couple of hours and it took much longer to weave than I thought it would. When we asked the women how long it usually took to weave a basket, they told us that it took about two full days for a smaller basket and almost five days for the largest baskets. When we finished weaving for the day, we shopped for baskets!! The many colors, patterns, and varieties of baskets were beautiful and it was difficult to choose. Each of us bought at least two or three baskets, and all that money goes straight to AIDP which builds houses for families in need. When we arrived back at the guesthouse we went to lunch and shopped at the clothing market. Then it was time for group 5 to hit the food market for dinner. We decided to make tacos/burritos with beef, rice, peas, and avocados. For dessert we got popcorn and chocolate, so the guest house was happy and full! The rest of the night will be filled with card games, relaxing, and getting ready for tomorrow's activities. Tomorrow we go to the orphanage!
Cat Kernan
Group 3 (Mr. Kuntz, Isaac, Jimmy, Sam, Taylor, and Sarah)
Today we went to AIDP. We went to a fondation of a house, and we started to fill the inside with rocks. We made it level, because it will be the floor. The group tomorrow will be pouring in the mud to fill in all the spaces. We were there for about 2 hours, but all we did was put rocks in the foundation, so there isn't much to say. Tomorrow we go to the gorilla trek, and everyone is really looking forward to it, even though we need to be up at 5:30...!
Isaac Melin
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
A packed day in Rwanda
Group four consists of Mrs. Kuntz, Rachel Frenz, Anna Landiz, Jordan Dritz, & Zach Cave. On our way to our destination today we dropped off the brick makers at their destination. The little kids we had played with yesterday came running out screaming they were so excited to see us. It was the cutest thing ever. The fact that it made them so happy to see us again, was so moving. It was hard for us to leave. Today we went to AIDP. AIDP is an organization that builds homes for widows and places 4 orphans with them in a community of others from AIDP. We went to build a house. We arrived and they told us we had to move this HUGE pile of dirt and dig down 2 feet where the house was going to be. This was so hard to do becuase there are so many stones in the ground there. We had one shovel, two hoes, and a pick. We got help from 3 other rwandans. They are hard workers. There was about 10 adults and 20 children gathered around watching and laughing at us. We worked very hard, but it was well worth it. It took about 2 hours and 45 minutes to move and dig all the dirt. Then we had to pick all the rocks we had taken out and put them outlining the 4 rooms of the house. After that we went to pick up those who were at brick making, and came back. Mr. & Mrs. Kuntz, Anna, Issac, and I all went out to find somewhere to eat lunch. A little boy who had attatched to Issac's hand led us to this great buffet called the green garden. I had rice, beans, pasta, frites, mini bannanas, and goat stew. With a citron fanta, my favorite. The pop here is 10X better than in the U.S. After a little wandering around and sitting at the guest house we decided to go to the clothes market. It was so fun to walk around. We saw where many women work on sewing machines in a row making clothing. Everyone calls us Muzongo, which means rich white person. They want us to buy there goods, and they always overcharge us so we have to barter down. It is common to find stations in the market where the clothing looks like it may be from good will. After the market we went to Greg's home/ office. Greg is a good friend of Cave and Kuntz and owns a tour guide company that we are using. He showed us his backyard which leads up a large hill. We hiked up to see the most beautiful, view of Ruhengeri. We could also see 3 of the volcanoes. Wow! Then we went to a couple of stands where there were some crafts. Everything is beautiful. After Mrs. Kuntz and I made a quick stop at the internet cafe we ran into Mr. Kuntz, chloe, Anna, Sophie, Mr. Hartwick, Mrs. Hennindale, and Dalphine. They were on the way to see Dalphines clothing shop in the market. We then bought fabric for 3,000 Rwandan Franks($5.06). The market is lots of little stalls with a roof over them. Each stall is packed. There were so many choices of fabric. After we all chose our fabric we came back to the guest house. Anna and I went across the street to get drinks. Then Dalphine's friends came to messure us for our skirts. They took the fabric and are making them for 2,500 Rwandan Franks each. They were so sweet. Tomorrow I go on the gorrilla trek! I am super excited. We have to get up at 5:30 tomorrow. But I will have no problem doing this because I am so excited!
Love to all those in Minnesota!
Rachel
GOUP #3- sarah s, taylor k, issac, sam, and jimmy
Today was a really fun day for our group. We left the BG Guest house at 830 and took a twenty minute car ride to a place where we built bricks. It was hard work and we got very muddy with the help of a couple mud fights. As a total our group made almosy 350 bricks. We worked hard for 3 hours in the bright sun but we were surrounded by gorgeous hills and lush plants. The people who worked there were kind hosts and taught us well, even with the communication barrier. Sam wants a shout out as the best worker with making 100 bricks of his own. We came back to the house covered in mud around 12, and then had free time. Most of us went to the markets and stores and continued our exploration of this fascinating city. Everyone in the group sends love to their friends and family at home! Tomorrow we will have another manueal labor day at AIDP.
-Sarah Silvestri
Group #2- Krista, Gabby, Jake, Mitchel, and Chloe
Today we went to the Imababazi Orphanage in the hills about 30 minutes outside of Ruhengeri. The ride was the most intense part of the day only because we drove about 7 km on unpaved rocky roads. Once we got to the orphanage we got a tour of the house and orphanage. It was one of the most beautiful sits I have seen so far in Rwanda because the garden was huge and their were hundreds of different types of flowers. After our tour of the grounds were down we went on a "hike" to the see a crater at the top of one of the mountains. Little did we know that it would be a 90 degree hike through a dense forest. I was never so tired in my life! Once we finished the hike we went back to paint the eating quaters of Imbabazi. That was very messy and I still have lots of paint stuck in my hair! But over all it was amazing to see all the great things Rosamund has done for the people of Rwanda, and the kids affected by the genocide.
-Krista Marshall
GROUP AWESOME (Mikayla, Izaak, Eleanor, Cat, Mrs. Hinnendael)
So today we went to go see the gorillas. I never thought the leading up to an experience could be so exhausting and difficult. Number one, we enjoyed the bumpiest car ride of our lives (with the African children chasing after us as always). I don't know if those were even roads. Number two, about two minutes into the jungle I stepped in a giant pile of buffola poop (it definitely looked exactly like a rock). However, after such an embarrassing experienced, I was eventually dubbed "in the clear" by Cat after Izaak stepped in two piles of poop (elephant and some unknown species). Number 3, there was no path. One of our guides was literally hacking away a path through the jungle half the time during our trek. Number four, there were a ton of prickly plants which were continuously nailing us in the legs as we made our way. However, after an hour of hiking we finally arrived, and let me tell you it was amazing. I never thought we would have gotten so close, but I literally could have reached out and touched the gorillas for some of the times (though our guides had our backs, and I was never concerned). We saw the chief (sickest silver back ever), a little baby swinging from a vine, and another gorilla peeing (like a mini waterfall) from the top of the tree). But seriously, It was incredible, and I've never had an experience like it. Hard work, but we finally made it through.
-Mikayla Coulombe
Group #1: Giulia Imholte, Sophie Ronning, Anne Arnason, Melissa Luther, and Elise Overman
Activity: Basket Weaving
Beginning the day with a notably later wake-up call at 7:45 and heading out for an hour and a half walk to the women's cooperative at 8:30, the day's activites were just as amazing as the adventure that was the gorilla trek. The walk to the women's co-op was one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen, probably one of the most picturesque in the world. When people call Rwanda the Land of 1,000 Hills they are not kidding, literally everywhere you look there are hills, covered in a mix of tropical growth as well more common trees and plants. We were accompanied by two Rwandan boys who raced us along pathways through the trees, helped us talk to the children of the village, and imitate Michael Jackson. The walk, in all it's beauty, was both exhilirating and calming. Once we reached the women's co-op, which was established by women widowed by the genocide, we worked for about two hours creating woven coasters. While it may seem like easy work, my fingertips were aching, and I know I'm not the only one who accidentally stabbed themselves with the miniscule needle. The adventure to the women's co-op finished with some purchases of beautifully woven baskets (Mom and Dad--I got something for the pool house). Following the ride back, us girls and Mr. Cave set out for the market to purchase the necessary items to prepare dinner for the night. While I like the organized and clean convenience of a grocery store, nothing compares to the hustle and bustle and natural smells of the market. Our findings consisted of a variety of vegetables, and we finagled beef, sweet bread, peanut butter, nutella, water, cookies, and rice from some surrounding stores. I think it's safe to say that our meal was the best, we were told so multiple times, making the day all them more fufilling. With another late wake-up call tomorrow, we are all excited to travel to the Imbabazi orphanage and continue our Rwandan experience.
Love to all back home
Giulia Imholte
Love to all those in Minnesota!
Rachel
GOUP #3- sarah s, taylor k, issac, sam, and jimmy
Today was a really fun day for our group. We left the BG Guest house at 830 and took a twenty minute car ride to a place where we built bricks. It was hard work and we got very muddy with the help of a couple mud fights. As a total our group made almosy 350 bricks. We worked hard for 3 hours in the bright sun but we were surrounded by gorgeous hills and lush plants. The people who worked there were kind hosts and taught us well, even with the communication barrier. Sam wants a shout out as the best worker with making 100 bricks of his own. We came back to the house covered in mud around 12, and then had free time. Most of us went to the markets and stores and continued our exploration of this fascinating city. Everyone in the group sends love to their friends and family at home! Tomorrow we will have another manueal labor day at AIDP.
-Sarah Silvestri
Group #2- Krista, Gabby, Jake, Mitchel, and Chloe
Today we went to the Imababazi Orphanage in the hills about 30 minutes outside of Ruhengeri. The ride was the most intense part of the day only because we drove about 7 km on unpaved rocky roads. Once we got to the orphanage we got a tour of the house and orphanage. It was one of the most beautiful sits I have seen so far in Rwanda because the garden was huge and their were hundreds of different types of flowers. After our tour of the grounds were down we went on a "hike" to the see a crater at the top of one of the mountains. Little did we know that it would be a 90 degree hike through a dense forest. I was never so tired in my life! Once we finished the hike we went back to paint the eating quaters of Imbabazi. That was very messy and I still have lots of paint stuck in my hair! But over all it was amazing to see all the great things Rosamund has done for the people of Rwanda, and the kids affected by the genocide.
-Krista Marshall
GROUP AWESOME (Mikayla, Izaak, Eleanor, Cat, Mrs. Hinnendael)
So today we went to go see the gorillas. I never thought the leading up to an experience could be so exhausting and difficult. Number one, we enjoyed the bumpiest car ride of our lives (with the African children chasing after us as always). I don't know if those were even roads. Number two, about two minutes into the jungle I stepped in a giant pile of buffola poop (it definitely looked exactly like a rock). However, after such an embarrassing experienced, I was eventually dubbed "in the clear" by Cat after Izaak stepped in two piles of poop (elephant and some unknown species). Number 3, there was no path. One of our guides was literally hacking away a path through the jungle half the time during our trek. Number four, there were a ton of prickly plants which were continuously nailing us in the legs as we made our way. However, after an hour of hiking we finally arrived, and let me tell you it was amazing. I never thought we would have gotten so close, but I literally could have reached out and touched the gorillas for some of the times (though our guides had our backs, and I was never concerned). We saw the chief (sickest silver back ever), a little baby swinging from a vine, and another gorilla peeing (like a mini waterfall) from the top of the tree). But seriously, It was incredible, and I've never had an experience like it. Hard work, but we finally made it through.
-Mikayla Coulombe
Group #1: Giulia Imholte, Sophie Ronning, Anne Arnason, Melissa Luther, and Elise Overman
Activity: Basket Weaving
Beginning the day with a notably later wake-up call at 7:45 and heading out for an hour and a half walk to the women's cooperative at 8:30, the day's activites were just as amazing as the adventure that was the gorilla trek. The walk to the women's co-op was one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen, probably one of the most picturesque in the world. When people call Rwanda the Land of 1,000 Hills they are not kidding, literally everywhere you look there are hills, covered in a mix of tropical growth as well more common trees and plants. We were accompanied by two Rwandan boys who raced us along pathways through the trees, helped us talk to the children of the village, and imitate Michael Jackson. The walk, in all it's beauty, was both exhilirating and calming. Once we reached the women's co-op, which was established by women widowed by the genocide, we worked for about two hours creating woven coasters. While it may seem like easy work, my fingertips were aching, and I know I'm not the only one who accidentally stabbed themselves with the miniscule needle. The adventure to the women's co-op finished with some purchases of beautifully woven baskets (Mom and Dad--I got something for the pool house). Following the ride back, us girls and Mr. Cave set out for the market to purchase the necessary items to prepare dinner for the night. While I like the organized and clean convenience of a grocery store, nothing compares to the hustle and bustle and natural smells of the market. Our findings consisted of a variety of vegetables, and we finagled beef, sweet bread, peanut butter, nutella, water, cookies, and rice from some surrounding stores. I think it's safe to say that our meal was the best, we were told so multiple times, making the day all them more fufilling. With another late wake-up call tomorrow, we are all excited to travel to the Imbabazi orphanage and continue our Rwandan experience.
Love to all back home
Giulia Imholte
Our Gorilla Trek in the Land of 1000 Hills
Yesterday we took a bus from our guest house deep into the hills of Rwanda. The first drive was smooth and full of excitement. Our white van stopped in front of the gorilla trek center. Here we got our guide, the two other people who would be trekking with us, and our assignment of which gorilla group we would be seeing. Once we had all that settled we were put back in our van and were driving once again to the outside of where we would walk to the entrance of the park and then make our way through the jungle to see the gorilla family. The van ride was extremly bumpy and quoting Mr. Cave in the end it did "get a little old." But in my opinion it was just one more part of our incredible experience. After about forty-five minutes of driving we came to a stop and hopped out. Even though the first part of the trek only took us to the fence of the park, the walk was tiring. We passed many fields full of people farming and goats and cows grazing. There were even some little kids out in the fields with their families. We saw potatoes and some of the other crops they were growing too. Soon the hike became steeper and the high altitude started to weigh on some of us. Finally we arrived to the outside of the park where we were able to sit and take a short break for water or to catch our breath. While we sat our guide told us how long it would be through the jungle to go and find the gorillas. He told us it would be six hours in total: four hours to get there and two hours back. We all laughed supposing he was joking but with a straight face he said he wasn't. With that news we all prepared to face to worst. Slowly we all got up with shifting eyes at one another, and I wasn't so sure if I could make it going up a steep up hill for four hours. We walked using the walking sticks we were given (which happened to come in handy). We saw and heard many interesting things such as the gigantic worm making it's way up a rock and the bright birds in the trees. Soon we came to a stop and our guide told us to take off our bags because we were going to see the gorillas in a few minutes. I'm pretty sure we were all surprised because it had only been about twenty minutes. He laughed and it turned out he had been joking all along about the six hours! Once we removed our bags and left our walking sticks we were no longer on the muddy ground that served as a walkway but instead a machete paved path full of stinging nettles and other green plants. Finally we saw the gorillas but they also saw us and one charged toward our guide hoping to scare us off. Slowly we backed up then attempted again, this time it was successful! We sat for an hour taking pictures and studying the gorilla's ways. They were so close you could see every feature. The hour passed by quickly and yet it seemed almost like the perfect amount of time. We walked back down the trail we had made, while trying to avoid the stinging nettles, which we eventually found were unavoidable. Even though we had the slight stings of the nettles and feeling a bit sticky from sweat, every part of the trek led to an unforgetable experience.
-Sophie Ronning
Group One (Sophie Ronning, Anne Arnason, Melissa Luther, Giulia Imholte, and Elise Overman)
-Sophie Ronning
Group One (Sophie Ronning, Anne Arnason, Melissa Luther, Giulia Imholte, and Elise Overman)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Group 3 (Sam, Issac M, Taylor, Jimmy, and Sarah)
Today we had a great day at the Imbabaze Orphanage. We woke up at around 5 AM to a rooster crowing. It was a great start to the day when we took a nice bumpy ride through the amazing town where Imbabaze was. All the little kids would run after the bus waving, a great sight to see. We arrived and were given a tour by the owner, who showed us the gardens (definitely something my mom would appreciate). Then we moved on to painting the dining hall, which took less then an hour because of all the help we received from the people at Imbabaze. Then, one of the older students at the orphanage took us on a walk/hike through the mountain and farm land. It took about an hour and a half and it was the coolest walk I had ever been on. It was filled with little kids following us, our crowd behind us grew from 2 kids, to over 15 by the end. Overall it was a great time and definitely a great day, looking forward to tomorrow, when we go brick making!
shoutout to my boy Zach Cave
until later,
-Sam Hafermann
shoutout to my boy Zach Cave
until later,
-Sam Hafermann
6/14/11-Group 4 (Dritz, Landis, Cave, Frenz, Kuntz)
hello everyone!
today, our group all went brick making. truthfully, we didnt really know what to expect because it was the first day of doing activities. we caught our taxi around 8 and headed to our destination. when we got there, we had to wait for a guide to take us to the area we needed to be to make the bricks. the walk to the area was very beautiful. once we got there, we all got right into it. We all started off at a good pace, but then after Jordan and Rachel's few bricks, they started to hangout with the little kids. they taught then some simple English words and just interacted. Anna and I worked the whole entire time. we both recorded a very high amount of bricks (around 50 a piece). After, we met up with the AIDP group, that didnt do anything because there was some confusion! Both groups then went to see where we would be making the house for the widows involved with the AIDP cooperation, and we also went to the AIDP orphanage.
We are all very excited for tomorrow..shout out to my boy sam hafermann
peace
zachcave
today, our group all went brick making. truthfully, we didnt really know what to expect because it was the first day of doing activities. we caught our taxi around 8 and headed to our destination. when we got there, we had to wait for a guide to take us to the area we needed to be to make the bricks. the walk to the area was very beautiful. once we got there, we all got right into it. We all started off at a good pace, but then after Jordan and Rachel's few bricks, they started to hangout with the little kids. they taught then some simple English words and just interacted. Anna and I worked the whole entire time. we both recorded a very high amount of bricks (around 50 a piece). After, we met up with the AIDP group, that didnt do anything because there was some confusion! Both groups then went to see where we would be making the house for the widows involved with the AIDP cooperation, and we also went to the AIDP orphanage.
We are all very excited for tomorrow..shout out to my boy sam hafermann
peace
zachcave
Day 1 Group Activities
Today I went basket making with Krista, Gabby, Jake, Mitchel, and our fearless group leader Jeff. Had a breakfast consisting of a variety of breads and started on the walk to the baskets. Our tour guide was very helpful and would point out some stuff as we passed by. He pointed out some people who were getting there motorcycle licenses and a fish farm on our way. We got into the outskirts of Ruhengeri and we attracted mobs of kids as we passed by. It was strange for me that the kids would just come running after us without telling anyone. Later when we were reflecting on the day Jeff said he wouldn't even let go of his kid in a parking lot let alone have them chasing after Muzungos[Rwanda for white people] on narrow paths surrounded by cliffs! When we finally got there the ladies who helped us were super nice but they knew very little English so communication was difficult after out tour guide left to get us a ride back.The woman who helped me picked up a started basket and tried to show me how to do it. After working at it for a few hours i had made a very small coaster. It was embarrassing because it is easy to see where i started and where she had to jump in and help. I was starting to feel pretty good about my adequate weaving until i looked up and saw the massive tarp full of a rainbow of beautiful baskets. I had always admired the baskets before but having to sit down and make them made me really appreciate the effort that they put into each basket. the tour guide said that the larger baskets can take u[p to five days on just one basket! I also had to preper dinner for 20 plus! Thank goodness for Delphine otherwise I would still be @ the market trying to figure it out! Rave reviews from all who had our french toast with Nutella. Cant wait for the adventures that tomorrow will bring.
-Chloe
-Chloe
Monday, June 13, 2011
St. Famille and the Road to Ruhengeri
We spent our first night at the Iris Guesthouse. Everyone in the group was exhausted from our travels but we had the opportunity to sleep in on Sunday. After waking up and having breakfast, we started the Muzungu Parade up to St. Famille Church. We were surprised to find that 9am mass was letting out right on time at 11am. Mass was in Kinyarwanda and was beautiful. St. Famille was the sight of several smaller massacres during the Genocide, but because it was in full view of downtown Kigali, large scale massacres were never carried out.
After the two hour mass we had a two hour lunch at the Chinese restaurant next door to the Iris. I guess we wanted to ease everyone into Rwandan cuisine. The kids were fine with that. After our two hour lunch, we went on a two hour walking tour of Kigali, visiting the the Belgian Troop Memorial, and then of course making a stop at the mall. Really students took some time to get on the internet and have some ice cream treat. Our return to the Iris was greeted by a sensational thunderstorm. It rained the rest of the night. Funny, we remember telling the kids several times that it's the dry season and it won't rain in Rwanda. As of yesterday we were 0-2. Most of us were still pretty tired so we had an early night.
This morning we woke up and got into the Muzungu Express to Ruhengeri. Everyone loved it. Even though we have been here several times, James and Dave always see something that surprises or amazes us on the road to Ruhengeri. The kids had the chance to greet people out of the window and practice their Kinyarwanda. Some are getting very good.
After settling in the the Amahoro Guesthouse, we went to the Silverback Cafe for a traditional Rwandan meal of stewed plantains, rice, mixed veggis, and stewed beef. It was quite good. The kids are really enjoying interacting with other kids. We returned to the Amahoro with an Entourage of Rwandans of varying age.
Our trip to see the Intore got changed and we traveled by bus halfway to Gisyeni to a small village. The Intore troupe danced with power and grace, beating a their drums and dancing and singing beautifully. At the end of the performance, of course the students had their chance to try their hands, feet, hips, etc. at Intore. They danced with enthusiasm, much to the delight of the two hundered Rwandans who had gathered to watch the show as well.
We returned to the Amahoro Guesthouse for a little dinner and we're now off to bed. We begin our formal cultural activities tomorrow, so stay tuned for updates from kids.
We are happy to be back in Ruhengeri and to see our friends, Greg, Whinnie, and Delphine.
Mwalamuche na Amahoro.
After the two hour mass we had a two hour lunch at the Chinese restaurant next door to the Iris. I guess we wanted to ease everyone into Rwandan cuisine. The kids were fine with that. After our two hour lunch, we went on a two hour walking tour of Kigali, visiting the the Belgian Troop Memorial, and then of course making a stop at the mall. Really students took some time to get on the internet and have some ice cream treat. Our return to the Iris was greeted by a sensational thunderstorm. It rained the rest of the night. Funny, we remember telling the kids several times that it's the dry season and it won't rain in Rwanda. As of yesterday we were 0-2. Most of us were still pretty tired so we had an early night.
This morning we woke up and got into the Muzungu Express to Ruhengeri. Everyone loved it. Even though we have been here several times, James and Dave always see something that surprises or amazes us on the road to Ruhengeri. The kids had the chance to greet people out of the window and practice their Kinyarwanda. Some are getting very good.
After settling in the the Amahoro Guesthouse, we went to the Silverback Cafe for a traditional Rwandan meal of stewed plantains, rice, mixed veggis, and stewed beef. It was quite good. The kids are really enjoying interacting with other kids. We returned to the Amahoro with an Entourage of Rwandans of varying age.
Our trip to see the Intore got changed and we traveled by bus halfway to Gisyeni to a small village. The Intore troupe danced with power and grace, beating a their drums and dancing and singing beautifully. At the end of the performance, of course the students had their chance to try their hands, feet, hips, etc. at Intore. They danced with enthusiasm, much to the delight of the two hundered Rwandans who had gathered to watch the show as well.
We returned to the Amahoro Guesthouse for a little dinner and we're now off to bed. We begin our formal cultural activities tomorrow, so stay tuned for updates from kids.
We are happy to be back in Ruhengeri and to see our friends, Greg, Whinnie, and Delphine.
Mwalamuche na Amahoro.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Arrived safe and sound and excited and tired
Well it has been a long few days.
We made all of our connections just fine but 20 hours on a plane can get to anyone. Yes, I said 20 hours. We were just about 7 minutes from landing in Kigali on Saturday night of (of course) there were severe thunder storms in the area. So our plane flew around and around and around and around for about 45 minutes when then decided to fly us back to Entebbe, Uganda.
Once in Entebbe we let some people of the plane, and I stood around for 1 hour trying to answer the following student questions,
"when are we leaving?"
"what country are we in?"
"what if we can't go to Kigali, will we stay here?"
"Can I switch seats now?"
"What is for dinner?"
"Should I put on my rain coat?"
"What if we get wet?"
(You get the idea.)
After we were picked up at the airport in Kigali we went to our guesthouse then walked to Chez Robert for dinner. It was pretty good given the fact we were 4 hours late.
We got kids to their rooms then went to sleep.
Attended Mass at St. Famille Catholic Church. It was only 2 hours long.
The students enjoyed working on their Kinyarwanda with the little kids outside the church. Don't worry parents, there are plenty of photos!
We returned to the guesthouse, handed out the spending $ then walked next door to a Chinese restaurant. After about 1.5 hours there (Rwanda is not known for its speedy service) we walked to the Beligian troop memorial and learned a bit of history of the Genocide.
Of course now we are at the mall, coffee shops and internet cafes.
When in Africa...
Big day tomorrow as we will to to Ruhengeri, see Intore dancers, eat a student prepared meal and get the lay of the land before a very busy week of cultural activities.
All is good (some pretty tired kids however).
Amahoro,
James
Personal shout-out to my family (I love you) and Zachary hasn't been too buggy. yet.
We made all of our connections just fine but 20 hours on a plane can get to anyone. Yes, I said 20 hours. We were just about 7 minutes from landing in Kigali on Saturday night of (of course) there were severe thunder storms in the area. So our plane flew around and around and around and around for about 45 minutes when then decided to fly us back to Entebbe, Uganda.
Once in Entebbe we let some people of the plane, and I stood around for 1 hour trying to answer the following student questions,
"when are we leaving?"
"what country are we in?"
"what if we can't go to Kigali, will we stay here?"
"Can I switch seats now?"
"What is for dinner?"
"Should I put on my rain coat?"
"What if we get wet?"
(You get the idea.)
After we were picked up at the airport in Kigali we went to our guesthouse then walked to Chez Robert for dinner. It was pretty good given the fact we were 4 hours late.
We got kids to their rooms then went to sleep.
Attended Mass at St. Famille Catholic Church. It was only 2 hours long.
The students enjoyed working on their Kinyarwanda with the little kids outside the church. Don't worry parents, there are plenty of photos!
We returned to the guesthouse, handed out the spending $ then walked next door to a Chinese restaurant. After about 1.5 hours there (Rwanda is not known for its speedy service) we walked to the Beligian troop memorial and learned a bit of history of the Genocide.
Of course now we are at the mall, coffee shops and internet cafes.
When in Africa...
Big day tomorrow as we will to to Ruhengeri, see Intore dancers, eat a student prepared meal and get the lay of the land before a very busy week of cultural activities.
All is good (some pretty tired kids however).
Amahoro,
James
Personal shout-out to my family (I love you) and Zachary hasn't been too buggy. yet.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Tick tock. 8 days away.
So I remember when we were holding informational meeting for Rwanda 2011 back in April of 2010 (and we had 2 kids at one of the meetings!).
Seemed like we would have to wait for an eternity for June 10, 2011 to arrive.
We are now 380+ days, a bunch of forms, 5 books, 3 class periods and a few parent meetings away for April of 2010.
Even though we have made this trip before, we look forward to the new experiences we will have. Each time is something special and we are excited to be able to share this beautiful place and our wonderful friends with 23 new students and 4 new other adults.
Just a reminder to the participants that we flight has been moved forward to 2:05 pm. We are meeting at the airport (near the Delta desk downstairs) at 11 am sharp.
For those of you who will be following us on this blog (or on Twitter thetraveled) please check back from time to time.
Exciting experiences await.
Amahoro,
Dave and James
Seemed like we would have to wait for an eternity for June 10, 2011 to arrive.
We are now 380+ days, a bunch of forms, 5 books, 3 class periods and a few parent meetings away for April of 2010.
Even though we have made this trip before, we look forward to the new experiences we will have. Each time is something special and we are excited to be able to share this beautiful place and our wonderful friends with 23 new students and 4 new other adults.
Just a reminder to the participants that we flight has been moved forward to 2:05 pm. We are meeting at the airport (near the Delta desk downstairs) at 11 am sharp.
For those of you who will be following us on this blog (or on Twitter thetraveled) please check back from time to time.
Exciting experiences await.
Amahoro,
Dave and James
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