Where do I start???? I have been playing this post in my head even before we left for Rwanda. We have been so excited to share this experience with you, little did I know that there really are no words to describe it. I find myself at home now, and it dawns on me, “I just returned from Africa” the one place I have wanted to visit since I was little. I would say it was everything I EVER imagine but that isn’t true. It was MUCH MUCH more then that. The women were amazing and gracious. Jennifer was so kind and helpful (not sure what we would have done with out her). Not to mention that Kigali and the rest of Rwanda are breath taking. The views in this city are outstanding. SERIOUSLY, it was like nothing I have ever seen. (This is the view from the work shop and one of many in the city)
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These women were so inspiring. With only 6 months of training they really knew their stuff. They picked up fast, which made our jobs SUPER easy. They even taught us how to use the treadle machine. Let me tell you, it is much harder then it seems, but they make it look so easy.
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Most days were spent within these 4 walls. These 4 walls held more stories and hope then one could EVER imagine. We went to Rwanda to teach them how to sew three items and we came home having learned WAY more then that. These women are an example of who each of us should strive to be. On our way to Rwanda I was wearing a bracelet by Lenny and Eva. Little did I how true these little phrases would hit home. It just might be the words I was looking for this whole time.
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I don’t want to be the one who told the whole story, so I will hold some things back for Alicia and Kiara to share on another day. But before I go, thank you to everyone who supported this trip from the beginning, the nice comments on Facebook, cards through mail, donations, and purchasing of the “Our Trip” items from Platinum. All of you have truly made a difference in these 11 women’s life and in ours. THANK YOU!!!!
XOXO
Kayla
P.S.
How cute (or Smart, as they would say) are they rocking their MJC, and not to mention that this is most likely the first time these women have ever own new clothing.
(Mary Sunshine, Grace, Astida, , Asha, Mama Anastasia, Charlotte, Yunes, Clementine, Fanny, and Oliva (Not pictured)
WOW! Now that!!!! That is so very awesome. I feel the love….and I adore that cuff. I need one…
Kayla, it is wonderful hearing from you and I am looking forward to hearing much more. The pictures are great and I know that the pictures in your mind will be a forever reminder of this special time in your life. By the way, my mama had a treadle machine and I remember her sewing dresses for me on it. That picture was a nice reminder for me. Thanks!
Beautiful post! I love hearing about the differences you ladies at MJC are making in this world! I am proud to be able to support these experiences! Sounds like you got just as much back as you gave :). Wonderful!!
Kla… These are such awesome pictures and the love the bracelet – YOU all look so nice
What a great trip that must have been, those women look so strong and smart and grateful for all they have, I love humble hard working people, and they do all look so cute wearing Maltida Jane clothing and I love your skirt, so cute!!!!