Hello, Goodbye

I went into today with some trepidation. Goodbyes are never easy. And often times in the Peace Corps you put more emphasis and support on certain parts of your life and don't even realize it. It can fall like a house of cards with one small change. Edison's last day in the village. For the last month, every time he traveled somewhere I was barraged with questions about where he was. Everyone was worried they would miss their moment to say goodbye. The day has finally come. Just on my walk home I had to tell two more people that he was gone for good. They were shocked that two years had already come and go and then in the next breathe wanted to make sure I was still staying here. Oh faeew, we will be together for another year.

We had a lovely going away party at work - fanta and sambusa were present, of course. And ample time for picture taking. We had a few criers. I guess Rwandans really do cry. Once one person got going, most of the women were hiding their faces. My favorite part was Paster Jerome (who recently returned from China) saying that he just spent 15 days in China and was bored stiff. He has no idea how Edison lasted 2 years! Hilarious. I love Rwandans who have traveled. Makes them more sympathetic about leaving your entire family and every familiar thing in life.

So a new chapter begins in my Peace Corps experience. The chapter with no sitemate. In happier news, the school break has begun. My old friend Claudine is back from her boarding school and I get to fill my days with great African tea and visits with karaoke. Good distractions as I step into yet another beginning.

p.s. Contemplating making a video to show everyone when I get back. Is there anything I need to make sure I include? If you have suggestions, let me know.