Birthday Morning

I said I wouldn't keep a blog but I can't help it. Now that I am back in Rwanda again, I want to share these vivid experiences. I may not write as much but let's hope Shannon will jump in.

Today is my birthday and I got up early for the Sunday morning run in Nyamirambo. You might think that hardly anyone would be out at 6:30 in the morning, but the main street is full of runners. Ariane will be super happy to hear that I saw at least 12 women running this time. Of course, there are lots of high fives, "esprit", "courage" and smiles. I am happy to say that I did two loops of the Nyamirambo hill without stopping, before breakfast!

Our journey to Rwanda was as easy as any 26 hour trip can be. We arrived 25 minutes early! Even more amazing, all our luggage arrived, including a bicycle I brought as a gift for my friend, Emmy. He picked us up at the airport and we both agreed it seemed only a short time since he had dropped Ariane and I off. He was thrilled with the bike.

The apartment is in good condition – someone, maybe Chris, had sorted all the books. Shannon and I discovered we are both neat freaks (yeah!) so we cleaned out the apartment yesterday.

The Nyamirambo market is full of pots and pans, old clothing, colourful fabrics, heaping piles of fruit and vegetables, beans, and rice. The great joy is all the people, who are not shy. I've learned a few words of Kinyarwanda (maybe only 5 words) but this makes everyone smile and laugh all the more.

After the market, Shannon and I walked to the city centre to change money, shop, and have a stop at the Bourbon Cafe for lunch. Next stop –no surprise – was the Serena Hotel to sign up for a month membership at the pool.

Last night my friend, Steven, came for dinner and he was very happy with all the books I brought him. He will be starting education college next week. He has been doing some English tutoring, translating and working on his book.

Kigali looks great. Many streets that were dirt before are now paved and they've added street lights and sidewalks. In fact there are sidewalks almost all the way along the Nyamirambo road. We used to have to climb over mounds of mud and avoid falling into pits.

It is truly a pleasure to be back and I am looking forward to the month of teaching.