The Weekend

This weekend has certainly been a busy one for our group. Saturday we had a slow start, let everyone sleep in a little while, and headed off the Genocide Museum in Kigali. Upon arrival we learned that the museum was not just a place to learn and reflect on what had happened in Rwanda 17 years earlier, but also the burial ground for over 250,000 people who were killed during the genocide. Needless to say, this was a powerful outing. Since I'm sure everyone had a very personal and unique reaction to the museum, I won't talk much here about our time there. When everyone returns home though, be sure to ask about it. I'm sure they'll be able to relay some pretty moving stories and facts.

After the museum, we decided to lighten the mood with a day around town. We found a new lunch spot - the Shake and Sip - and did a little shopping and errands. We then returned home to spend time with our respective host families. 

Today was a big day for the group. We had originally planned for this to have been an off day, but instead, we had already decided to return to the school to meet the kids which needed a scholarship. We had such a great morning with the kids. The boys started a game of soccer while the girls played monkey in the middle and danced. Before the day was over, many of us had bonded one or several in the group and decided to sponsor them ourselves. Obviously, with so many kids in need and having only a small group, we could only agree to help a few. However, we spent the remainder of the afternoon taking pictures and learning more about the kids so we could advocate for them when we return. Don't be surprised should anyone get a request to sponsor a child to go to school :)

Tomorrow is 4th of July here and we'll be off to the National Stadium to enjoy the festivities. I will be sure to report back tomorrow with details of the day! Happy 4th to everyone back home!